Rachel Griffiths calls on politicians to stop violence against women

Hollywood actor Rachel Griffiths has called on politicans to do better to stop violence against women, after a string of parliamentary sex scandals.

Hollywood actor and director Rachel Griffiths has called on political leaders to “do better” for women’s safety and equality as sexual violence against women remains under scrutiny.

Griffiths, who is an executive producer of award-winning political drama Total Control, applauded former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins and Australian of the Year Grace Tame for sparking tough conversations which she believes are long overdue.

“It’s overdue, it’s distressing, it’s thrilling, it’s triggering,” Griffiths said at the opening night of Hamilton.

Rachel Griffiths with her mum Anne pictured on the Red Carpet for the Australian Premiere of Hamilton the musical, Sydney Lyric Theatre, Pyrmont. 27th March 2021. Picture by Damian Shaw

“I think it’s a watershed moment. Women have just had enough. We have carried covid in our families, I was in Melbourne during the lockdown.

“We’re over the disrespect, over the lack of gender pay, over the harassment and we’re all expecting better from our representatives. I think there’s lots of light being shone in some dark corners, but I’ve taken so much heart from women like Grace and Ms. Higgins whose courage is just gobsmackingly awakening.”

Higgins previously made headlines after alleging she was raped by a male colleague at Parliament House in 2019 while Tame is a sexual assault survivor.

Brittany Higgins previously made headlines after alleging she was raped by a male colleague at Parliament House in 2019

Australian of the year, Grace Tame after speaking at the UN Women Australia event for International Women's Day 2021. Picture:Justin Lloyd

Last year, Griffiths was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her significant service to the performing arts.

The Golden Globe winner said sharing women’s stories through film has never been more important.

“I like to tell stories that are true to women,” she said.

“I don’t care if we’re strong, vulnerable or weak. Strength isn’t everything.”

The Muriel’s Wedding star hopes to see more women in roles that are “not just someone’s f***ing girlfriend.”

Originally published as Rachel Griffiths calls on politicians to stop violence against women