Violence in our homes - an assault on our future

Comments that some boys may consider harmless can have a very serious impact. Since the age of 15, one third of women have experienced inappropriate comments about their bodies or sex life, and one quarter have experienced unwanted sexual touching.

We need violence prevention programs across the entire education system, tertiary and secondary in particular. Male dominated sports are taking the lead, from soccer to the AFL, the National Rugby League and the Australian Rugby Union, programs are being put in place to change attitudes and prevent violence. It needs to happen urgently at all local sports clubs and pubs too.

Industries dominated by men are also fertile grounds for fixing the attitudes that lead to violent behaviour behind closed doors, that costs us all too much.

A VicHealth study has shown that intimate partner violence is responsible for more ill health and premature death in Victorian women aged 15-44 than any other risk factor, including high blood pressure, obesity and smoking.

The full health impacts of violence against women stretch from the front door of the family home to hospitals, prisons and beyond. We need to prevent the scars inflicted on the hearts and minds of our young people, and make healthy and respectful relationships in our homes and communities a priority.

Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge not to commit, condone nor remain silent about violence against women.