Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE) is proud to support 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, which runs from 25 November to 10 December.

WHISE CEO, Kit McMahon said this is a time to actively promote gender equality and take a stand to end men’s violence against women. Statistics show that one in four women have experienced violence by an intimate partner since the age of fifteen (compared to one in thirteen men)¹.

The theme of this year’s campaign is ‘Respect Is…’ and messages of equality and respect will be highlighted across the state.

“We are working with our partners to raise awareness for gender-based violence, including sharing what it means to be respectful and practical ways to call out disrespect,” said Ms McMahon.

WHISE received $2,500 from Respect Victoria to run initiatives and increase the community’s understanding of respect during the 16 days and beyond. Through this support WHISE was able to deliver a webinar to partners on values-based messaging with Common Cause Australia which stakeholders in the region were asking for.

“WHISE seeks to sustainably build capacity and capability of our partners in our region to prevent violence against women. Using positive values based messaging is an important prevention skill that is key to effectively spread important messages about preventing family violence,” said Ms McMahon.

“We are so proud of all our partners and the incredible work that they are doing to create gender equity – core to preventing violence against women.

“There are some amazing events and activities going on across Southern Melbourne region, and we really encourage all members of the community to get involved.”
If you are experiencing or at risk of experiencing violence, help is available.

You can access help 24/7 by calling Safe Steps on 1800 015 188 or by visiting safesteps.org.au.

If you are worried your behaviour might be harming your partner or family members, call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 to speak to a specialist counsellor.

For more information, visit WHISE’s website and the Respect Victoria website.

^{1. For key facts and statistics about gender equality see page 17 of the 2020 campaign toolkit}