Domestic and family violence prevention

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 launches 16 Days of Activism that conclude on December 10, International Human Rights Day.

Domestic and family violence is preventable. Ending domestic, family and intimate partner violence starts with respectful and equal relationships.

In 2020 and 2021 the We’re Better Than That Campaign produced a series of videos promoting respect, healthy relationships and to encourage men to be active bystanders when they witness behaviour that condones and contributes to violence in the community.

Targeting domestic and family violence, the videos were funded by the Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network and created in partnership with Randwick, Waverley, Woollahra and Bayside Councils and the Hope Believe Shine Foundation.

Bondi Rescue’s Bruce ‘Hoppo’ Hopkins and several other well-known Sydney influencers have lent their voices to the campaign.

“It’s up to all of us to look out for disrespectful behaviour towards women” Hoppo says, against the backdrop of Sydney’s Bondi Beach. “Most beaches have lifeguards on patrol. Now it’s your turn to be a lifesaver and help prevent domestic violence.”

Cricket legend Mike Whitney, chef Colin Fassnidge, actor Luke Carroll and community leader Rishi Acharya also feature in the series.

“I think it’s important for people like me who’ve got a voice to talk about these issues,” Mike Whitney explains, “and say to men that there’s a lot of other ways that you can deal with your relationship instead of being violent”.

A second video series was launched during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras in 2021 with Drag Race Downunder contestant Maxi Shield and featured actor Bill Conn, paralympic swimmer and Order of Australia recipient Matt Levy, and actor Benny Turland from Neighbours.

The videos are available to view on the official We're Better Than That - YouTube page.

Our Watch is a national leader in Australia for the primary prevention of violence against women and their children.

Further information