UNCLASSIFIED

Media Release
23 November 2012

Take the opportunity to stand up to violence against women
WHITE RIBBON DAY

The Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency CEO, Jon White is encouraging all men to stand up and publically affirm women’s rights to safety by challenging men who engage in violent behavior. Mr White’s comments come as Police from around Australia and New Zealand support White Ribbon Day 2012 - a day where communities get together to take a stand against violence towards women.

All around both countries, police will be leading or participating in activities and events with communities to encourage the message of no violence in the family or against women.

“There are many ways men can safely reduce and prevent violence against women. In the first instance we would always encourage all men who witness a violent act to call the police. The White Ribbon Campaign suggests other ways men can support women – we just ask that if you do decide to intervene, you do it safely. If in doubt, we recommend you call the Police immediately,” said Mr White.

The new White Ribbon campaign highlights that many men do not tolerate violence against women, but are unsure what they can do to stop it. The campaign makes suggestions on how men can challenge their mates, and others, in ways that do not endanger their own safety, knowing there are many good men who will support their actions.

In Australia:
• One in three women over the age of 15 report physical or sexual violence at some time in their lives.
• One woman is killed every week by a current or former partner.

In New Zealand:
• One in three women will experience partner violence at some point in their lives.
• On average, 14 women are killed by their partners or ex-partners in New Zealand each year.
If you know someone who is a victim of family violence or someone who is committing family violence please contact your local Police station or Crime Stoppers hotline anonymously on 1800 333 000 (Australia) or 0800 555 111 (New Zealand).

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