We are proud to support the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence campaign, running from 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December which is Human Rights Day. This global initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic, family, and sexual violence, as well as highlight available support services for those affected.

Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reveals that 1 in 6 women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by a partner, and 1 in 16 men have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15. In the outer west and Blue Mountains regions of NSW, 1,723 domestic violence-related assaults were reported from July 2023 to June 2024. Unfortunately, these numbers are likely to be even higher, as many women may not report assaults to police. 

Our Care and Connect program, funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care, supports primary healthcare professionals, like GPs, working in the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow and Penrith areas to identify the signs and respond appropriately to patients who may be impacted.

Research shows that GPs can be the first point of contact for victims. This program is increasing knowledge and resources through training, and connecting health professionals with trained support workers called Care and Connect Linkers, provided by Relationships Australia NSW. The linkers can help victim-survivors navigate often complex systems, and assist with everything from making disclosures and safety planning, to seeking apprehended violence orders, housing, counselling, financial support, and more.

We want people to know that their GP can be a safe first point of contact. By providing healthcare professionals with the tools and training they need, we can create a stronger, more informed health system. This will provide those affected by violence with the confidence and sense of safety they need to seek and access help and to hopefully heal and rebuild their lives.

We know that people who are experiencing family, domestic and sexual violence, will commonly seek support from someone close to them – be it a friend or family member. Often, people don’t know how to respond, what to say, or where to get help. An important part of ending gender-based violence is educating ourselves and knowing how to support someone who may reach out for help.

In Australia, 1800RESPECT is a nationally recognised service offering counselling, information, and support for those affected by domestic, family and sexual violence. The service operates 24/7, including throughout the upcoming holiday period, which can be an unsafe time for many. This service includes phone and online counselling and has recently expanded to provide a discreet text messaging option.

1800RESPECT can also take calls from concerned family and friends and provide them with advice on how to help people they care about who are being impacted. 

Other support services are also available, including for those needing emergency accommodation. Visit our website for more information.

In urgent situations, always contact the police on 000.