National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day

Scream

So that one day

A hundred years from now

another sister will not have to

dry her tears wondering

where in history

she lost her voice.

Jasmine Kaur

Last night, a poignant candlelight vigil took place at the Rose Garden of Kilmore District Hospital (KDH). The purpose was to commemorate and honor the lives lost due to domestic and family violence. The bluestone building at Kilmore District Health was illuminated in purple, symbolizing solidarity with this critical cause. The vigil, organized by Safe Steps, a Victorian family violence crisis service, provided a space for people to share stories and remember those who tragically lost their lives.

National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day, observed on the first Wednesday of May each year, coincided with this solemn event. Across Australia, candlelight vigils and public landmarks bathed in purple light serve as poignant reminders of the devastating impact of family violence. This month-long initiative aims to raise awareness about the profound social and personal consequences of domestic and family violence, while also emphasising the importance of community support for survivors and victims.

Nurse Educator and Associate Nurse Unit Manager Regula ‘Regi’ McKinlay, one of the organisers, said, “For the last four years KDH has joined the Safe Steps evening of reflection and remembrance to honour the memories and help bring light to this national crisis by lighting a candle and illuminating the heritage hospital building in purple. The Candlelight Vigil is a powerful space for our staff and our community to come together to mourn, share, connect. “

Tanya Ellis, Program Manager for Strengthening Hospital Response to Family Violence (SHRFV), says, “Family violence is a prevalent and serious health issue that has a profound impact on the psychological and physical well-being of victim survivors.  Victim survivors are among our community and frequently present to our health service. The health service is a critical entry point for many people, which presents as on opportunity for identification, response and referral.”

She adds, “At Northern Health, Family Violence Training is mandatory for all staff members and volunteers.  Please ensure to complete this training and use the Family Violence Screening & Identification Tool when working with a patient who has disclosed family violence.”

Mental Health Division Specialist Family Violence Advisor, Amanda Dashwood, says, “The Family Violence Protection Act 2008, recognises that family violence is a fundamental violation of human rights. Our procedure requires us to screen every consumer for family violence under the Multi Agency Risk Assessment Management (MARAM) Framework.

Startling Statistics:

• On average, police respond to a family violence incident every six minutes in Victoria.
• Victim survivors often experience increased violence from perpetrators after the relationship has ended.
• Children are present in 30 per cent of family violence incidents attended by police.
• Women are nearly three times more likely than men to experience violence from a current or former partner.
• Aboriginal women face a staggering 33 times higher risk of hospitalization due to family violence compared to non-Aboriginal women.
• In April last year, there were 14 violent deaths of women in Australia, whereas this April saw 26 such tragic losses. This translates to one woman’s life lost every 4.38 days in 2024.

Source: https://safeandequal.org.au/understanding-family-violence/statistics/

As Premier Jacinta Allan said, “Behind every statistic is a woman, is a family, and a community who are grieving.”

So, how can you help somebody experiencing domestic violence? Amanda has this advice. “Make it clear that you want to help. They may or may not be ready to talk. Hold that space. Listen, believe and let them know the abuse is not their fault. Let them know you will check in with them again and are there to help.” Lastly, she says, “Provide referral options and remind them to call 000 in an emergency.”

Tanya says, “The SHRFV Team is also available to facilitate family violence training in a face-to-face capacity.  Please contact the SHRFV Team if you would like to organise training in your area (8405 8519).”

If you are concerned about your safety, or the safety of someone you know, please talk to a health professional or contact a Family Violence Specialist Service:

Safe Steps 24/7: 1800 151 188

The Orange Door: 1800 319 355

1800 RESPECT 24/7: 1800 737 732”

Picture shows Bec van de Paverd, Director of Nursing and Site Director, Kilmore District Hospital, at the vigil.