The Nationals Senator for Victoria, Bridget McKenzie, says all Central Victorians, but especially men and boys, should swear an oath ‘never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women’ on White Ribbon Day tomorrow, 25 November.
“Statistics continue to show that one in three women over the age of 15 experiences violence in their lifetime, and one in five experiences physical violence,” said Senator McKenzie.
“It is widely known that domestic violence is not just physical violence. It also encompasses sexual, emotional and psychological forms of violence.”
“Research from VicHealth showed domestic violence is the leading risk factor contributing to death, disability and illness in Victorian women between the ages of 15 and 44 – a higher risk than from smoking, from alcohol use, from high blood pressure or from heart disease”, Senator McKenzie explained.
Additionally, it is not just the social devastation that pervades our communities – the evidence of the economic damage is significant.
“In 2002-2003, the cost of domestic violence to Australia was estimated at $8.1 billion, $3.5 billion of which was attributable to pain, suffering and premature mortality, according to Access Economics.”
“It’s essential that our community recognises these impacts and works together to help prevent domestic violence.”
“The efforts of all of those who have worked so hard in our local community to raise community awareness about White Ribbon Day; including our White Ribbon Day ambassadors, and organisations such as Zonta, should be applauded,” said Senator McKenzie.
“I encourage Central Victorians to attend the White Ribbon Day walk at the Civic Gardens tomorrow at 3:30pm, where there will be community activities and a short ceremony.”