The 16 Days of Activism begins on Wednesday, November 25, the International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women, and culminates on December 10, Human Rights Day.
Victoria's 16 days of activism coincides with the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence.
The campaign provides an opportunity for Mitchell Shire Council to partner with agencies across the shire to collectively make an impact and take a stance.
As a municipality with significantly high family violence rates, the council is set to showcase that such behaviour is not tolerated or accepted in the community.
Mitchell Shire is ranked number 10 out of 79 Victorian councils for family violence incidents.
This year, there has been a further increase in family violence incidents in the shire.
To help with the increasing cases, an Orange Door access point in Wallan was announced in June.
The Orange Door is a free service for adults, children and young people who are experiencing or have experienced family violence and families who need extra support with the care of children.
To mark the 16 Days of Activism campaign, Mitchell Shire Council, in partnership with Murrindindi Shire Council, will host an online COVID-safe panel discussion and Q&A for the community.
The Change the Story: Five Things You Can Do To Prevent Violence Against Women panel will be facilitated through Women’s Health Goulburn North East.
To register for the panel discussion, visit https://www.whealth.com.au/16-daysof-activism-against-gender-based-violence-regional-calendar/If you or someone you know needs help or support, the following services are available:
● Safe Steps (24/7 Family Violence Response Line): 1800 015 188;
● 1800 RESPECT (24/7 sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service): 1800 737 732;
● Nexus Primary Health: 1300 773 352;
● Men's Referral Service (24/7 professional support and information service for men): 1300 466 491; and
● Seniors Rights Victoria: 1300 368 821 from 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday. For more information on Seniors Rights Victoria, visit www.seniorsrights.org.au
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