Alpine Shire Council and Alpine Health have joined forces to stand up against violence against women in support of the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence was started by activists in 1991 and runs from 25 November to 10 December.
Three decades on, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a widely recognised annual global campaign that encourages action to end gender-based violence.
During the campaign, organisations and individuals worldwide unite to spotlight the urgent issue of men’s violence against women as a profound violation of human rights.
Council's Chief Executive Officer, Will Jeremy, said the 16 Days of Activism is a way to raise community awareness of violence and support efforts to prevent violence against women in Victoria.
"The alarming reality is that violence against women in Australia continues to escalate, with more women experiencing harm at the hands of men every year," he said.
"This is a national crisis that demands urgent action, stronger accountability, and a collective commitment to change.
"No part of society is immune to men’s violence against women, and we are calling on everyone to play a role in creating communities where women are safe, respected, and equal."
According to Counting Dead Women researchers of Destroy the Joint, 64 women were violently killed in Australia last year. In 2024 so far, 66 women have been killed.
Peter Burgess, Director of Healthy Communities at Alpine Health, said the core message of the 16 Days campaign is about respect.
"Respect is building healthy, equal relationships, seeking enthusiastic consent, and promoting equality in your workplace, sporting club or community," he said.
"It’s making it clear that violence against women and all forms of gender-based violence are unacceptable.
"The statistics can be quite overwhelming, but together, we can work towards building respectful communities that are prepared to stamp out violence."
For more information about how your business or community group can be involved this 16 Days of Activism campaign or taking an all year round approach, visit www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au/campaigns/16-days-activism-against-gender-based-violence
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, help is available. In an emergency call 000.
For all other enquiries contact safesteps.org.au or the Centre Against Violence Helpline 24/7 on 1800 015 188.
1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732
If you are an adult male experiencing family violence, contact Merri Health on 1300 362 739.
