Ahead of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on Friday 25 November, ministers, members and senators joined Our Watch board and staff members for the annual joint event at Parliament House in Canberra.
Our Watch CEO, Patty Kinnersly, said it was fantastic to have representatives from all parties, as well as independents, at the event.
“Ongoing multi-partisan political commitment is critical to support the sustained, long-term work needed to prevent violence against women in Australia,” she said.
“Our Watch works with partners nationwide, from governments to corporate Australia, sporting organisations, educational institutions, and the media, because everyone has a role to play in stopping violence against women before it starts.”
Our Watch Chair, Moo Baulch OAM, said across the country there is an increasing recognition of the need for a preventative approach and an appetite for learning more about what action to take.
“Today, people in Australia not only want to see change – they want to be part of the change,” they said.
“Until every woman is safe, equal and free from violence, they will never be able to full participate in our society, and our community will never be genuinely equal.
“And so, our work continues.”
Speakers at the event included Ngunnawal Elder Serena Williams, Minister for Social Services the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, Senator Larissa Waters and Bridget Archer MP.
Senator Waters and Mrs Archer are Co-Conveners of the Parliamentary Friends of Ending Violence against Women and Children, along with Alicia Payne MP.
