Australia's national violence prevention organisation, Our Watch, has welcomed the New South Wales Government's first Primary Prevention Strategy released today.
Chief Executive Officer Patty Kinnersly said Our Watch advised on developing the strategy, Pathways to Prevention. It provides for the first time a whole-of-government, coordinated approach to preventing violence against women, which has claimed 15 women's lives in the state so far this year.
NSW becomes the third state after Victoria and Queensland to release a dedicated primary prevention strategy, and $39m has been set aside for it to be delivered.
"This strategy sets NSW on the path for delivering the multiple, comprehensive and sustained prevention efforts required to stop violence against women before it starts. This strategy identifies actions needed if we are to stop the crisis of gendered violence," Ms Kinnersly said.
"NSW Police record one domestic violence incident every 15 minutes, and evidence tells us the problem is vastly underreported. As well as the devastating impact on the lives of women and children, violence against women creates enormous economic cost, estimated at more than $21.7 billion a year nationally
"Domestic, family and sexual violence is preventable, and this strategy recognises that it's everyone's business with individuals, communities, government, schools, workplaces, sporting organisations and media all having a role to play in contributing to a community of safety and respect."
Ms Kinnersly said the strategy recognised the crucial role for men to take a lead in addressing violence against women.
She also welcomed the focus on prevention actions in early childhood education, schools, local government and sports clubs, in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander–led work and in workplaces.
"The NSW public sector is the largest employer in Australia so the opportunity to embed primary prevention initiatives in that workforce of 453,000 employees – or one in 10 of the state's workers - will in itself have a significant impact in bringing about the change needed to prevent and end violence against women.
"Pathways to Prevention is a significant strategy which will lead to more sustained investment and a greater sense of responsibility for everyone to contribute to preventing violence against women."
Key Facts:
*If you cover this story, or any story regarding violence against women and children, please include the following tagline:
"If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000."
About us:
Our Watch is the national leader in Australia's work to stop violence against women and their children before it starts. The organisation was created to drive nation-wide change in the practices, norms, and structures that lead to violence against women and children.
