The annual 16 Days in WA campaign has officially commenced, with a powerful call for West Australians to 'Play Your Part' in the crucial mission to stop violence against women.
Agents of Change Step Forward
This year's initiative features sixteen prominent West Australians who are championing the cause. The campaign's theme, 'Play Your Part', deliberately focuses on the influential role that men and boys have in shaping community attitudes and behaviours.
Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Jessica Stojkovski explained the rationale behind the theme. "We are deliberately engaging men and boys to challenge harmful attitudes and model respect," she stated. "Disrespect doesn't always lead to violence, but every act of violence begins with disrespect." She emphasised that by calling out harmful behaviours, the community can drive cultural change and prevent violence before it starts.
Community Leaders Model Respectful Behaviour
The campaign's agents of change include a diverse group of respected figures from various sectors. Among them are West Coast Eagles defender Tom Cole, Fremantle Dockers captain Alex Pearce, Olympian Nina Kennedy, and Australian Medical Association WA president Kyle Hoath.
Tom Cole shared his personal commitment to the cause. "I play my part by calling out disrespect when I hear it and role modelling positive behaviours with my teammates," he said. "I play my part because there's everyday things all of us can do to advocate for change."
Dr. Kyle Hoath provided a powerful perspective from his roles in health and sport. "As a doctor, a father and someone who works across health and sport in our community, I see the impact violence has on women, children and families," he remarked. He stressed that violence is never a sign of strength, adding that "Real strength is shown through empathy, respect and standing up against abuse."
How You Can Play Your Part
Ms Stojkovski encouraged every West Australian to contribute to stopping violence before it begins. She highlighted that actions can range from attending local community events to calling out inappropriate behaviour or starting conversations with loved ones.
The campaign coincides with significant community events, including the 35th March against Family and Domestic Violence, which will take place in Perth's CBD on Tuesday.
The collective message from all campaign leaders is clear: everyone has a role to play in preventing family and domestic violence and creating a safer Western Australia for all women.
