In Australia, it’s estimated that women face a one-in-three chance of being assaulted and one in two will experience some form of sexual harassment.
The global campaign 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence runs annually between November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and December 10, Human Rights Day.
Much of what organisations such as UN Women advocate for during the campaign include holding perpetrators to account, making tech companies step up to create safer online spaces for women and girls, supporting survivors with real resources and investment into prevention and culture change.
Over the course of the 16 days, Mitchell Shire Council, as part of the Lower Hume Collaborative Group, will partner with the neighbouring Murrindindi Shire Council and more than 25 local organisations to emphasise that family violence is not tolerated or accepted within the community.
“Every person deserves to feel safe, respected and valued – at home, at work and in our community,” Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said.
“The 16 Days of Activism is a powerful reminder that change starts with us. By standing together, we can challenge harmful behaviours, support victim-survivors and build a future where equality and safety are the norm.”
Throughout the campaign, a number of free events will be held across the shire, with a standout being the fourth annual Steps for Change Walk, to be held this year in Seymour.
16 Days of Activism events across the region
Community Bystander Action Workshop
Open to anyone, the Community Bystander Action Workshop sets out to build knowledge and create a safer and more respectful environment for all in the community.
The first event of the campaign will be held at the Kilmore Customer and Library Service Centre on Thurday, November 27, from 5pm to 7pm.
Murrindindi Walk for Respect
Murrindindi Shire Council, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Alexandra, will host a Walk for Respect to bring the community together.
The walk will begin at 11am at the Rotary Park in Alexandra on Friday, November 28.
Steps Towards Change Walk
The fourth annual walk in Mitchell Shire will be held at Lions Park in Seymour, delivered by council in partnership with the Rotary Club of Seymour and the Goulburn River Parkrun.
The event will be held from 7.45am until 10.30am on Saturday, November 29.
Coffee with a Cop
In partnership with Victoria Police and Northern Community Legal Centre, Coffee with a Cop will provide locals with an opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee while connecting with police officers and a senior lawyer.
Kings Perk will host the event from 9.30am to 11am on Thursday, December 4.
With 2318 family incidents reported in the 12 months until June 2025, a 3.8 per cent rise compared to the previous year, council is calling the community to action.
“Respect is shown in many forms — through healthy relationships, calling out harmful language and making it clear that violence in any form is unacceptable,” Cr Dougall said.
“We invite all members of our community to participate in events during the campaign. Together, we can take meaningful steps toward change and show that we stand in our commitment to ending violence.”
If you or someone you know needs help, support is available through The Orange Door on 1800 634 245, Safe Steps on 1800 015 188, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
For a full list of local support services and resources, visit https://tinyurl.com/bdctetnw
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