16 Days of Activism 2024: Events and initiatives in Cardinia Shire

Cardinia Shire Council is proud to join the global movement to end violence against women and girls though the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign for 2024. This global initiative, led annually by UN Women and facilitated by Respect Victoria and Safe and Equal state-wide, runs from 25 November to 10 December.

A story of ‘Hope’ shared at Free Author Talk in Pakenham this November

Book now to attend this special author talk and hear from inspiring family violence survivor and dedicated advocate Rosie Batty as she shares her second autobiographic book, ‘Hope’.

From the day Rosie so bravely fronted the media after her son’s death at the hands of his father, she has given voice to thousands of domestic violence victims – and her impact has been extraordinary. By sharing her own journey of healing and resilience, Rosie has empowered countless others to find hope in the face of adversity. To not only find the strength to confront darkness, but also the courage to find a way forward .

The event will feature an activity to participate in the ‘Clothesline Project’, by Anglicare, and will be emceed by Kit McMahon, CEO of Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE). Light refreshments and mingling will follow the event.

‘Hope’ Author Talk with Rosie Batty AO

• When: Date: 6–8pm, Thursday 28 November 2024
• Where: Pakenham Hall
• Cost: FREE
• Bookings essential: https://bit.ly/Hope-Nov2024

This special event will be hosted in partnership by MyLi Libraries and Together We Can, supported by Cardinia Shire Council.

Please note: This event will cover sensitive and confronting topics, such as Family Violence.

DV Safe Phone smartphone recycling initiative

Throughout the 16 Days of Activism, (25 November–10 December), Cardinia Shire community members can donate their old smartphones to the DV Safe Phone initiative.

This initiative recycles and redistributes old phones to support services assisting people who have experienced domestic and family violence, ensuring they have free access to a safe and clean phone – a lifeline for those in need. By donating, community members can directly contribute to the safety and support of those affected by domestic violence. It’s an easy yet powerful way to show your support.

Drop-off points are conveniently located at:

• Hills Hub, 400A Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Emerald
• Hewitt Eco House (Kooweerup Regional Health Service), 215 Rossiter Rd, Koo Wee Rup
• Cardinia Shire Civic Centre, 20 Siding Avenue, Officer
• Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Rd, Pakenham
• Cardinia Life, 4/6 Olympic Way, Pakenham
• Pakenham Library, Corner John Street and Henry Street, Pakenham.

To prepare (‘clean’) your smartphone for donation, follow the simple steps outlined on the DV Safe Phone website at www.dvsafephone.org/donate-phones.

For enquiries about this initiative, email mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au.

This initiative is brought to Cardinia Shire through a partnership between DV Safe Phone and Together We Can, supported by Cardinia Shire Council.

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2024

The Council’s involvement in this campaign aligns with the Cardinia Shire Liveability Plan, which prioritises the safety, equality, and respect of all community members. The Liveability Plan outlines Council’s commitment to fostering a community where everyone feels safe and respected, and where gender-based and family violence is not tolerated.

Through Together We Can, Cardinia Shire Council works closely with community service organisations and community members to enhance the impact of the 16 Days of Activism campaign. Collaborating with organisations including MyLi Libraries and Women’s Health in the South East is crucial in educating and changing attitudes and perceptions around domestic violence.

These partnerships help address the drivers of gender-based and domestic violence through advocacy, awareness raising, education, and outreach, and ensure that support is accessible to those who need it.

Where to get help

If you, or someone you know, is in an emergency situation, please call 000 for urgent police assistance.

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing family violence and needs support or advice, please contact 1800 RESPECT or one of the other local support services available in Cardinia Shire and listed in the online Cardinia Support directory (includes a ‘Quick Exit’ button) at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/CardiniaSupport-FV.

In 2024, Respect Victoria and Safe and Equal are working together to support local community engagement with the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence. Cardinia Shire Council has been funded under Respect Victoria’s 16 Days of Activism grassroots initiative to facilitate local events and initiatives under the campaign.