Council says no to family violence

The City of Whittlesea’s newly elected Mayor and Deputy have joined a state wide campaign to raise awareness of the impacts of family violence on the community.

“Unfortunately in the City of Whittlesea we have some of the highest rates of family violence in the region. It’s a serious issue that needs to be addressed,” Mayor Kris Pavlidis said.

“Statistics show that local police attend an average of 55 family violence incidents each week.”

“And the violence isn’t just physical, there’s other forms of abuse - emotional, sexual, psychological and financial – all are unacceptable,” Deputy Mayor Emilia Lisa Sterjova said.

“And most of this abuse is by a family member. In fact, you’ve got more chance of being a victim of family violence than a random act of violence, which is frightening.”

Saturday 25 November is White Ribbon Day - Australia’s campaign to stop men’s violence against women.

But it also kicks off the state’s Victoria against Violence campaign.

“We wanted to use this time to raise awareness in our community and to send the message that violence is never ok,” Cr Pavlidis said.

The City of Whittlesea is working for change with our Gender Equity Family Violence Strategies which will be revised and updated next year to include an even bigger focus on preventing the violence before it occurs.

“We want our community to know there is support available if you are experiencing family violence or indeed if you are concerned about your own use of violence,” Cr Pavlidis said. “It’s never too late to reach out for help.”

“And we want our community to look out for one another. Offer support and don’t let violence go unnoticed behind closed doors.”

What to do if you’re experiencing family violence:

• If you are in immediate danger, call the police on 000
• For 24 hour emergency help contact Safe Steps Family Violence Response Service on 1800 015 188
• For advice and assistance contact Berry Street Northern Family and Domestic Violence Service on 9450 4700
• If you are a man who has used violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491

Read more about family violence.