Chris Hayes (Fowler, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Last week, our nation was rocked to the core by the tragic and senseless deaths of Hannah Clarke and her three children: Aaliyah, Laianah and Trey. Ms Clarke was killed in a disturbing set of circumstances which certainly highlight the need for continuing action in respect of the issue of domestic violence.

Although there certainly has been a profound transformation in community awareness and understanding about this very complex issue, it's been there for a long time. But the unspeakable brutality that we witnessed last week makes it clear that domestic violence continues to remain a significant and pressing issue in our community. On average, one woman is killed every week by a partner or former partner. This isn't a statistic where we can afford to put our heads in the sand and say it's a matter for the authorities. This is a matter for all of us, and it must be addressed holistically.

Today we remember Ms Clarke, her children, the countless other women who have lost their lives through domestic violence and their grieving families. If someone you know needs help, I urge them to speak to 1800RESPECT, Lifeline or the Men's Referral Service. We can and must do everything possible to break the scourge of this violence.