As part of the ‘16 Days in WA’ campaign, led by the Department of Communities, the Department of Justice joined the Silent March in Forrest Place to raise awareness about ending violence against women and children.
Ministers, including Attorney General Dr Tony Buti, attended the event along with Justice leaders and staff, some delivering floral tributes to honour the lives of women and children lost to family and domestic violence.
“This event unites our community in taking a stand to end domestic violence. Real change requires all of us, which is why it’s so powerful to see so many people, organisations, and departments working together”, Dr Buti said.
Prisoners and staff from custodial facilities, including prisons in Greenough, Bandyup, Casuarina, Melaleuca, Boronia, Wandoo and Karnet, created banners for the march calling for an end to family and domestic violence.
Director General Kylie Maj explained the importance of custodial facilities also hosting their own events to educate and empower people in their care.
“The marches are silent, but the message is loud: We need to stop domestic violence. That’s why we deliver programs to build resilience, so when people leave, they can care for themselves and women in similar circumstances.”
Victims of Crime Commissioner Kati Kraszlan reinforced that crime prevention requires a whole-of-community approach.
“Government cannot achieve this alone. For victim-survivors, the reality extends beyond these 16 days; the impact is felt every day and can last a lifetime”, Kati Kraszlan said.
Assistant Commissioner Anika Smith highlighted the significance of the 16 Days in WA campaign for the Department of Justice, noting that a significant proportion of women in custody have experienced domestic violence.
“It’s really important for us to speak out in the community because this issue impacts the wellbeing of our entire society.”
According to the latest data, the number of assault victims in WA increased by 10% to 47,045, the highest recorded in 30 years. Of these, 65% of assaults were family and domestic violence related (30,451 cases). (Source: Department of Communities / Australian Bureau of Statistics).
The annual 16 Days in WA – Stop Violence Against Women campaign runs from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day.
The campaign is inspired by the global movement for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, driving change in culture, behaviour and attitudes that lead to violence against women and their children.
For more information: About 16 Days in WA
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