Domestic violence activist Phil Cleary calls for AFL to show ‘real leadership’ in Jordan De Goey case

A prominent domestic violence activist has said the AFL needs to show “real leadership” on the issue of violence against women after Jordan De Goey’s latest scandal.

Domestic violence activist Phil Cleary has called for the AFL to show “real leadership” on the issues of gender equality and violence against women.

Cleary said it was astounding that Jordan De Goey was again facing charges after an incident in New York and that senior Collingwood figures had not yet publicly commented.

“I think coach Craig McRae should have taken the lead and said: ‘I’ll be asking Jordan De Goey why he was charged with groping and why the charge was dropped’,” Mr Cleary said.

“Irrespective of De Goey’s answer and what actually happened on that dance floor, I say it’s time for the AFL to show some real leadership on the gender equality and anti-violence question.

Jordan De Goey in action for the Magpies.

“It’s time the AFL asked anti-violence campaigners, me included, about the role it can play in eradicating the attitudes that give rise to the violence.”

Cleary, who has previously spoken at one AFL club, said more education was needed. The long-time campaigner since his sister Vicki died in 1987 at the hands of her violent boyfriend, said there was a disturbing pattern of behaviour.

“Where’s the leadership, it’s astounding how they continue to make mistakes like this,’’ he said.

Collingwood star Jordan De Goey and tattoo artist Luke Dyson partying in New York. Picture: Instagram

Phil Cleary in 2018.

Cleary also criticised the praise handed to former AFL star Ben Cousins after his appearance at the Brownlow Medal.

“When Ben Cousins walked from jail convicted of stalking and harassing his ex-partner, AFL legends lined up to sing his praises and wish him well,’’ Cleary said.

“Nowhere did I hear a word of sympathy from the AFL for Cousins’ victim or a commitment to educating players about violence against women.

“No sooner was Cousins gracing the red carpet than Jordan De Goey was on a New York dance floor, charged with groping a woman, before that charge was dropped.”