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Member for Swan Hill, Peter Walsh, joined the pledge made by Victoria’s male Members of Parliament this week to never commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.
Sixty MPs from both sides of politics made the pledge in the lead-up to White Ribbon Day – the international day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
The event was organised by Minister for Women’s Affairs Ms Wooldridge in conjunction with the White Ribbon Foundation, which was established in 2007 as the first male-led family violence prevention campaign. It aims to raise awareness through campaigns and events and engaging men as White Ribbon ambassadors.
“One of the most effective ways of changing attitudes to family violence is to enable men to take responsibility and show leadership in their communities,” Mr Walsh said.
“I have a strong belief in the importance of country women taking leadership roles in their communities and my commitment to supporting White Ribbon Day reinforces this belief.
“Although preventing violence against women is a community-wide responsibility, men have a critical role in helping to stop violence before it starts,” he said.
“The Coalition Government has committed nearly $40,000 to support activities associated with White Ribbon Day which include new funding to promote online education and awareness on preventing violence against women, and funding for community organisations to promote events through the community,” Mr Walsh said.
For more information on activities go to www.whiteribbon.org.au