Randwick Domestic Violence Remembrance Day: calls for a national response

Hundreds of domestic violence advocates, who gathered in Sydney’s east at a moving remembrance day ceremony questioned ‘where are women safe’. Here’s what they want done.

“Where are women safe?” – that was the question raised at a gathering of hundreds of domestic violence advocates in Sydney’s east, where a call for national reform was demanded.

Hundreds of supporters gathered in High Cross Park on Wednesday, as the Randwick community came together for Domestic Violence Remembrance day.

Speakers at the event, which was supported by local police, emergency workers and locals, echoed the stark figure of one woman dying at the hands of someone known to them every week.

Lived Experience advocate and Prince of Wales nurse Nadine Taylor, said violence against women was a “national emergency” deserving of a “national response.”

“We are heartbroken, angry, sad and grieving for the women that have lost their lives,” she said. “Australia is experiencing a shocking violence against women epidemic with 28 women murdered this year and 12 in April alone.”

“We need Governments across all departments to act and funding to be made available.”

A service in Randwick this morning to remember victims of domestic violence. Left, Lauren Anderson, 25, and Bree Hurst, 23. Picture: David Swift

Randwick resident Bree Hurst, 23, said the ceremony remind advocates and the wider community on the prevalence of domestic violence in Australia, and a desperate need to support victims.

“We need to keep talking about these issues, keep the discussion going, these events are great to spread awareness but we shouldn't forget about it when these events are over,” she said.

“As a female you see the affects it has on people around you and the pain it causes them.”

“Domestic violence has always been important but its only now getting the coverage it needs.”

The service in Randwick this morning to remember victims of domestic violence. Police were in attendance, holding a rose is constable Emma Kennedy. Picture: David Swift

Attendees paused to remember victims of domestic violence. General picture of the event. Picture: David Swift

Kingsford Smith Federal Labor MP Matt Thistlethwaite said the government was establishing a 10-year plan to end domestic and family violence within a generation.

Mr Thistlethwaite said that the government has devoted $2.5 billion to achieving this plan.

“Better front line services, changing attitudes through education and justice reform and more support for the victims.” he said were key pilars of . “But its not enough and we need to do more.”

: Assistant Minister Matt Thistlethwaite. `Picture: NCA NewsWire / Nikki Short

The Remembrance Day finished with dozens laying down roses at a memorial site for those hurt and killed by domestic violence.