NSW Stop Domestic Violence Day (7 December 2007 - 1st Friday in December) is coordinated by the NSW Strategy to Reduce Violence Against Women. It is a dedicated day to highlight the problem of domestic violence and actions people can take to protect the rights of women and children to safety.


Facts

• Fifty-seven per cent of Australian women involved in the International Violence Against Women Survey (IVAWS) reported some level of physical/sexual harm over their life.
  Australian Institute of Criminology 2004, Women’s Experiences of Male Violence: Findings from the Australian Component of the International Violence Against Women Survey (IVAWS), Australian Institute of Criminology, Canberra, viewed 6 September 2006, http://www.aic.gov.au
• Domestic violence (DV) represents about half of all violence against women.
• In 2004, there were 25,761 domestic assault incidents recorded in NSW with 86.1% occurring on residential premises.
  NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research 2005, Tends and patterns in domestic violence Assaults, Crime and Justice Bulletin No 89
• DV is the greatest health risk to women between the ages of 15-44.
• The total cost of DV in Australia was estimated to be $8.1 billion in 2002-03, with $3.5 billion spent on costs related to pain, suffering and premature mortality3
  Access Economics Pty Ltd, 2004, The Cost of Domestic Violence to the Australian Economy, Office of the Status of Women, Canberra
• Domestic violence is not just about physical violence, it occurs through emotional and financial control also.
  

• Always call the police on 000 if you see or hear violence happening.
• If a woman tells you she has experienced violence, listen and support her. Find out what you can do to help. Phone DoCS’ Domestic Violence Helpline 1800 65 64 63, 24 hours a day.
• Children can be affected by exposure to domestic violence even if they do not directly see or hear it. Cal DoCS’ Helpline on 132 111 if you are worried about a child or young person.
• Talk to someone you trust if you are experiencing domestic violence. Call the Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63.
• Get help to change your behaviour if you are physically or verbally aggressive, controlling or violent towards your partner. Phone Relationships Australia 1300 364 277 or visit www.ntv.net.au

• View the 2007 calendar of 16 Day events
• View the 2007 Event Organiser's Kit for ideas