Australia grapples with an alarming reality – nearly one woman falls victim to family and domestic violence (FDV) every week, while one in four children witnesses such brutality early in life. Silence envelops these issues, shrouding them in underreporting and perpetuating their prevalence.
Third Sector’s National Family Safety Summit with over 60+ speakers stands as a light of hope, bringing together professionals, policymakers, advocates, and community people committed to combating FDV and child abuse.
Rach Mac, Founder of Broken Crayons Still Colour Foundation, described the 4-day summit in WA as an extraordinary experience, marking it as a career highlight.
“Resources are needed to save lives prevent further harm prevent homelessness and prevent child removal it’s not rocket science I repeat it’s crucial,” said Mac.
Sara Taylor, Co-Founder of Ngadhi Family Services, lauded the summit for fostering cross-industry connections across Australia.
“The events are a great opportunity to get to know colleagues within similar industries across Australia, whilst learning more holistically about our industry,” she remarked.
Highlighting the significance of cultural sensitivity in addressing FDV, CEO of Mudgin-Gal Aboriginal Corporation, Ashlee Donohue said listening and learning from what other states are doing in this space allows us as Aboriginal people to continue to respect, care and share information in a culturally safe way.
“Their stories remind us that FDV is not just a statistic; it’s a lived reality for many individuals and families,” said NYYANI Life Coach Nyoka Morgan.
Mauricio Sanabria, Manager of Quality & Safeguarding at PeopleKind, stressed the significance of empowering those impacted by FDV, highlighting the summit’s role in sharing strategies for addressing this societal problem.
The National Family Safety Summit stands as a catalyst for change, promoting collaboration, innovation, and empowerment to create a safer and more compassionate community, free from the shackles of violence and abuse.