Mayor’s Message - Friday 29 November 2024

While gender-based violence is prevalent in Ballarat, it is preventable.  

Ballarat has felt the pain that gender-based violence inflicts upon communities, which is why we must all play our part to challenge the harmful attitudes and behaviours that drive men’s violence against women and children.  

This 16 Days of Activism and beyond, we have an opportunity to come together to forge a future where all Ballarat residents are safe, equal and respected. It is an opportunity to take action and stand in solidarity as a community.  

We are all aware that not all disrespect leads to violence against women, but all violence against women starts with disrespect.  

To start the 16 Days of Activism, there is a community walk against gender-based violence, taking place Friday 29 November 2024.  

It is hosted in partnership with the City of Ballarat, Central Highlands Integrated Family Violence Committee and Communities of Respect and Equality Alliance.    

I encourage you to join with us on the 500 metre walk, which will commence on Lydiard Street North near Mair Street.  

Wear orange, bring a water bottle and any colourful signs or banners you’d like. The walk will conclude at Alfred Deakin Place where speakers will address the crowd.

I encourage all Ballarat residents to work together to prevent violence against women.

Safety for women in any community isn’t a given, but it doesn’t have to be this way, and we all have the power to change it.  

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for advice or support.

Visit ballarat.vic.gov.au to see all the activities taking place in our city across the 16 Days of Activism.

- Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves