‘16 Ways’ are practical actions that have been developed by the NSW Strategy to Reduce Violence that individuals, families and friends can take during the 16 Days (25 November – 10 December) and beyond to help end violence against women.

Whether it’s wearing a white ribbon for the 16 days, attending an event, calling the police if you see or hear violence happening or being supportive to someone who is experiencing violence – there is something that we can all do to help make women’s lives safer.”

Click here to download the 16 Ways to Stop Violence Against Women Poster>>

1. Violence against women affects everyone. Find out how physical, sexual and emotional violence against women affect you and the people around you.

2. Show your commitment to ending violence against women. Wear a white ribbon during ‘16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women’ (25 November – 10 December) Visit www.whiteribbonday.org.au to order ribbons.

3. Stand up against bullying and harassment in your workplace.

4. Violence against women is a crime. Take action if you see or hear violence happening. Call the Police on 000.

5. Talk to someone you trust if you are experiencing violence.
- DoCS’ Domestic Violence Line (24hrs) 1800 65 64 63 / 1800 67 14 42 (TTY) NSW Rape Crisis Centre (24hrs) 1800 424 017 or (02) 9819 6565 / (02) 9181 4349 (TTY)

6. Protect children from violence. Call DoCS’ Helpline 132 111 if you are worried about a child or young person. If you are a child and there is violence in your life, phone the Kids Help Line (24hrs) 1800 55 1800 or visit www.kidshelp.com.au.

7. Expect and give respect in your relationships. If someone is treating you with respect, you feel:

* Safe and never scared of your partner
* Free to say no to things you don’t want to do
* Free to see friends & family when you want
* Free to express your opinions and beliefs
* Free to change your mind
* Good about yourself
* Supported to make your own decisions
* Free to end the relationship if you want to

8. Men, take action to end violence against women.

9. Believe and support people when they tell you they have experienced violence, such as sexual assault, domestic violence or harassment. Let them know that help is available

10. Attend a ’16 Days’ event between 25 November - 10 December.

11. Hold your own information stall or event during ‘16 Days’ to show your support for stopping violence against women. Invite local media to attend.

12. Get your school involved in learning about respectful relationships.

13. Remember domestic violence happens in many relationships, including same sex relationships. Visit www.ssdv.acon.org.au.

14. Find out more about date rape. Visit www.aboutdaterape.nsw.gov.au.

15. There are no excuses for violence against women. Break a sexual violence myth - visit www.nswrapecrisis.com.au to find out how.

16. Invite men and boys in your local clubs and businesses to wear white ribbons during the ‘16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women’ (25 November – 10 December).