Tasmanian Public Servants will gather for the annual Walk for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children, marking the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Family Violence.
Minister for Women and the Prevention of Family Violence, Jo Palmer said since 2015 Tasmania’s public servants have gathered for this event to take a stand against violence.
“There is power in the community coming together to raise awareness and spark discussion about the real and lasting change that is required to stop violence against women and children, and to achieve a Tasmania free of violence for all,” Minister Palmer said.
“Violence against women and children in our community is unacceptable and this walk is an opportunity to say enough is enough.”
Across our country two in five women have experienced violence since the age of 15; one in four women has experienced violence, emotional abuse, or economic abuse by a cohabitating partner since the age of 15; and one in two has experienced sexual harassment in their lifetime.
Minister Palmer said these statistics are deeply troubling and need to change.
“Along with standing in solidarity with those who have been impacted by family violence the walk is one of hope. Hope for a future where no woman or child lives in fear.”
Principal Solicitor at the Women’s Legal Service Tasmania, Elise Whitmore shared her insights into the critical legal aspects of family violence at today’s walk.
Two female survivor advocates also shared their lived experience stories to shine a light on the importance of advocacy and support in the journey towards recovery and change.
The event concluded with a walk through Salamanca Place.
“I am proud to be part of this important event as we continue to work towards a society that is free from violence against women and children.”
The Rockliff Liberal Government has committed $100 million to deliver actions under its third Family and Sexual Violence Action Plan, Survivors at the Centre.
“Our goal to eliminate family violence and to ensure that all Tasmanians feel safe, supported and free from violence is ongoing, and this event shines a light on that,” Minister Palmer said.
