Debate resumed, on motion by Mr Hayes:

That this House:

(1)

notes that 25 November marks White Ribbon Day, the symbol of the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women;

(2)

recognises that White Ribbon Day aims to prevent violence against women by increasing public awareness and education by challenging the attitudes and behaviours that allow violence to continue;

(3)

asks all Australian men to challenge these attitudes and behaviours, so that we can begin to drive real change in our community;

(4)

asks all Australian men to join the ‘My Oath Campaign’ and take the oath: I swear never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women;

(5)

notes with concern that one in three women will experience physical violence, and one in five will experience sexual violence over their lifetime;

(6)

understands that domestic and family violence are primary causes of homelessness;

(7)

acknowledges the cost of violence against women and their children to the Australian economy was estimated to be $13.6 billion in 2008 09, and if we take no action to shine a light on this violence, that cost will hit an estimated $15.6 billion by 2021 22; and

(8)

asks all Members to show that they are challenging violence against women by wearing a white ribbon or wristband on White Ribbon Day.

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