White Ribbon Day

Tomorrow is White Ribbon Day, a day to raise awareness about family and domestic violence, and a day where we stand up and speak out for those who are impacted.

Family and domestic violence can happen to anyone. It can include behaviour that is violent, threatening, coercive, controlling or intended to cause someone to be fearful and can impact anyone from any background, gender or age group, including children, adults and the elderly.

1 in 6 Australian women and 1 in 16 men have experienced domestic violence and the majority of these cases occur in their own home. Many cases of family and domestic violence go unreported, meaning it may be much worse than what the statistics indicate.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the last two years have been a stressful time for many Australians, including veterans and their families, so it is more important than ever that those experiencing family and domestic violence receive the support they need.

If you are concerned about how you’ve been responding to things recently, it’s ok to ask for help. It’s important we stop the cycle of violence; not all disrespect results in violence, but all violence starts with disrespectful behaviour.

Remember support is available 24 hours 7 days a week.  

For more information on what is available you can access any of the below services:

  • Call triple zero (000) if you are in immediate danger.
  • 1800RESPECT is open 24/7 for national family violence and sexual assault counselling. It’s a free and confidential service. Call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit 1800respect.org.au.
  • MensLine is the national telephone and online support, information and referrals service for men with family and relationship concerns. Call 1300 78 99 78 or visit mensline.org.au.
  • Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling provides crisis support to veterans and their families. Call on 1800 011 046 or visit openarms.gov.au/get-support/crisis-accommodation. This service is free, confidential and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 
  • More support for veterans and veteran families is available on the DVA website, including access to resources and the DVA Family and Domestic Violence Strategy 2020-25. Visit dva.gov.au/documents-and-publications/family-and-domestic-violence-strategy.
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