Plea goes out to end domestic violence

With one woman a week killed by an intimate partner, the community has an important role to play in stopping the epidemic.

CALL TO ACTION: Officers Cameron Simmons, Lea Weibel and Jarryd Davies urge residents to do their bit to end violence against women. Picture: Ellen Ransley

WEARING a white ribbon today isn't just a fashion statement, it's a response to the ongoing epidemic of domestic and family violence.

On average, one woman is killed every week in Australia, and law enforcement and the community alike are calling for an end to the problem.

Senior Constable Cameron Simmons said while murder was at the pointy end of a broad spectrum of violence against women, there were other forms which were much more common.

"It's a spectrum that encompasses financial, verbal, emotional, psychological, physical and sexual abuse, as well as workplace harassment,” Sen Const Simmons said.

"They all form part of a devastating cycle of violence.”

This year's theme is 'Together, we can end men's violence against women inour community'.

Sen Const Simmons said as a community, we set the standard for acceptable behaviour.

"If we can teach children from a young age about respect, that will transpire through the ages,” he said.

People had a responsibility to play their part today, and every day, he said.

"Everyone in the community must have the courage to stand up and speak out against violence against women.

"We must teach young people in our community that any violence against women will not be tolerated.”

Originally published as Plea goes out to end domestic violence