Maybe you’ve seen it.
Or had the horror of enduring it — an unsettling likelihood, given UN Women reports that one in three women will experience gender-based violence in their lifetime.
But Greater Shepparton City Council, Goulburn Valley family violence organisations and the community refuse to accept it and are uniting for the global 16 Days of Activism campaign.
This global initiative calls for the prevention and elimination of gender-based violence.
Running from November 25 to December 10, the campaign will deliver almost 20 free workshops and information sessions, held both in-person across the municipality and online.
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali said this was an opportunity for residents to “learn, connect and take action”.
“(These sessions) will provide participants with information and practical strategies that support respect and safety,” he said.
“This can in turn help reduce incidents of family violence and violence against women within our community.”
This year’s program spans a broad range of topics, from safety and connection for multicultural women to understanding coercive control, workplace support for women and therapeutic DRUMBEAT workshops.
Two key presentations will be delivered by Dr Stephanie Wescott, focusing on countering harmful online influences shaping the attitudes of boys and young men.
One session is tailored for educators, while the other will support parents and caregivers.
However, there is no distinction when it comes to the campaign’s shared goal, according to council social equity project co-ordinator Lisa Lymbery.
“When we all take part in the 16 Days of Activism, we show that our community stands together in the fight against gender-based violence,” she said.
For workshop registrations, visit shepp.city/16days
To learn more or list an event on council’s official 16 Days of Activism 2025 webpage, call 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au
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