A domestic violence campaign targeting disrespect in children will be launched in Adelaide today
EXCUSES such as “boys will be boys” are the start of a cycle of disrespect that ends in domestic violence, Minister for Women Kelly O’Dwyer will tell a national summit in Adelaide today.
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EXCUSES such as “boys will be boys” are the start of a cycle of disrespect that ends in domestic violence, Minister for Women Kelly O’Dwyer will tell a national summit in Adelaide today.
Ms O’Dwyer is using the Council of Australian Governments’ National Summit on Reducing Violence Against Women and Their Children to launch the next phase of the Stop it at the Start campaign.
The first phase of the campaign, which included an advertisement showing a boy who slammed a door on a girl growing into an abusive man, was confronting for some.
However, the Government says its evaluation research showed more than two in three adults who saw it took action and started changing their attitudes.
The second phase will include new advertising and shows how words and actions affect young people.
The $30 million program is jointly funded by national and state governments.
Ms O’Dwyer said the campaign was changing how people understand the link between disrespect and violence against women.
“This is a cycle of violence that starts with disrespect,” she said. “Throwaway comments like ‘it’s just boys being boys’ or ‘he did it because he likes you’ can make young people think disrespect is a normal part of growing up.
“While not all disrespect ends with violence, the cycle of violence certainly starts with disrespect. It’s good to remember that our behaviour is a powerful influence on others, particularly the young.”
The campaign, part of the National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and Their Children 2010-2022, attacks excuses such as “boys being boys” as enabling bad behaviour and encourages adults to talk to young people about respect.
Ms O’Dwyer highlighted statistics showing one in six women had experienced physical or sexual violence from a current or former partner since the age of 15.
The new advertising will start on Sunday on TV, radio, online and in newspapers. There is more information at www.respect.gov.au.
Australia’s battle against domestic violence enters a new phase today, which the Federal Government has called “Turning the Corner”. It’s the fourth part of the national plan.
Human Services Minister Michelle Lensink said the State Government was also committed to eliminating “the scourge of domestic violence”.
“We must continue to stand up and eliminate violence against women and children,” she said. “We should aim towards a day when there is no need to talk about the critical urgency to stop violence against women and children – a day free of domestic violence.”
For support, phone 1800 respect or the domestic violence crisis line on 1800 800 098.