Supporting 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is proud to support Respect Victoria to deliver its Respect Women: 'Call It Out' campaign, part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence from 25 November to 10 December 2021.

Chief Executive Officer Bernie O'Sullivan said the campaign is an outstanding and timely opportunity to actively promote gender equality and take a stand to end men's violence against women.

"We will be working closely with Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health Service as they lead the local campaign with the Macedon Ranges Family Violence Network."

"Council and other members of the network will be sharing social media posts reflecting the theme 'Respect is …' to encourage community conversation and action on preventing violence against women and family violence."

"This campaign also helps reflect our organisation's commitment to gender equality in the workplace," he said.

Mr O'Sullivan said the new Gender Equality Act commenced on 31 March 2021 to improve workplace gender equality in the Victorian public sector, universities and local councils.

"At Macedon Ranges we have been taking positive action including the development of a four year Gender Equality Action Plan that covers policies, programs and services that impact on our staff as well as members of the public."

Council staff have completed Active Bystander workshops, Responding to Family Violence workshops, Gender equality training, a gender equality survey and an organisational audit.

"Respecting each other helps keep our connections strong at all levels… in our personal relationships, families, workplaces and communities. Never, has that been more important."

"Residents are encouraged to follow campaign social media, share 16 Days posts within their own networks, and discuss these issues with family and friends," Mr O'Sullivan said.

Research shows that family violence is less likely to occur in households where gender equality is championed and relationships are underpinned by respect. Sadly, almost one in ten Australian women in a relationship have experienced domestic violence and abuse since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

All 79 Victorian councils are involved in the state-wide Respect Women: 'Call It Out' campaign. This year Domestic Violence Victoria will partner with the Municipal Association of Victoria, Victorian Council of Social Services, No to Violence, and Gender Equity Victoria thought its support of Women's Health Services Council on the project.

For more information, visit our Prevention of violence against women webpage, Domestic Violence Victoria or the Respect Victoria website.