Tasmania’s political leaders have backed Justice for Her, a statewide campaign tackling family violence, in a show of cross-party unity ahead of a landmark fundraising event next month.
Led by Women’s Legal Service Tasmania, the initiative is encouraging individuals, businesses and community leaders to take action against gendered violence through a pledge campaign and fundraising drive.
Its flagship event, Dinner for Change, will be held at Hobart’s Ninja Stadium on May 15 from 6.30pm.
Women and the Prevention of Family Violence Minister Jane Howlett welcomed the campaign.
“Domestic and family violence is never acceptable,” Howlett said.
“Every Tasmanian deserves to live free from fear, harm and abuse and preventing violence requires commitment from every corner of our community.”
“Justice for Her is an important initiative that strengthens support for women and children while encouraging Tasmanians to be active participants in creating cultural and systemic change.”
Labor’s shadow minister for the prevention of family and sexual violence Meg Brown said ending gendered violence should never be political.
“Ending gendered violence should never be political, it is a responsibility shared by all of us,” Brown said.
“Justice for Her is creating meaningful pathways for community, business and government to work together to support victim survivors and drive real reform.”
Greens spokeswoman for the prevention of family and sexual violence Tabatha Badger said the initiative balanced immediate support with long-term action.
“Women and children escaping violence need practical help now, but we also need bold, sustained action to address the drivers of gendered violence,” Badger said.
Dinner for Change co-host Carolyn Self said the united support sent a strong message to victim-survivors.
“When leaders from across parliament, business and the wider community stand together on this issue, it reinforces that the safety of women and children is a shared priority,” Self said.
Justice for Her aims to help fund emergency legal support, safe accommodation assistance, transport and immediate security measures.
One in three Tasmanian women have experienced physical or sexual violence since the age of 15, according to organisers.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
