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http://www.canberratimes.com.au:80/news/opinion/editorial/general/lets-stop-violence-against-women/1392298.aspx

Australia -Violence Against Women

KATE LAPPIN

22/12/2008

 

The Australian Bureau of Statistics has found that one in three women in Australia have experienced physical or sexual violence since the age of 15. Other reports have put the rate as high as 57 per cent. Access Economics has found domestic violence alone costs Australia $8.1billion per year.

Australia has fallen short of its human rights obligation to do everything possible to end violence against women. As we enter the holiday season, statistically the time of year with the highest rates of violence against women, we are reminded of the urgent need to address this deeply entrenched problem.

Research shows that domestic violence increases in December and January, with key dates such as New Year's Day being particularly dangerous. Increased family pressure, financial burdens, heightened child contact disputes and higher levels of alcohol all seem to play a part in making this a risky period for women.

For too long, approaches to preventing and addressing violence against women have been ad hoc, short term and chronically under-funded. For example, the previous federal government's ''Australia Says No'' awareness-raising campaign was an important initiative. However, it was not developed in consultation with the sector delivering support services, was periodic, not supported by a long-term prevention plan and did not address the diversity of women.

In the ACT, the Family Violence Intervention Program has been recognised by the United Nations as a good practice initiative. The program has significantly improved cooperation between domestic violence agencies, the police and the Department of Public Prosecutions. It has led to a considerable increase in successful prosecutions, improved efficiency, and increased the feeling of safety for victims. Clearly, this kind of approach should be replicated throughout the country.

Research by Amnesty International has found the best way to address violence against women is with a national plan of action. We have been campaigning for such a plan since 2005.





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