The Cook Labor Government has announced the allocation of $200,000 in grants to support events and activities for the 16 Days in WA campaign, aimed at combating family and domestic violence. This funding will assist various organizations across Western Australia in raising awareness and promoting community engagement as the campaign prepares to launch in two weeks.
Among the recipients, the Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing and the Aboriginal Family Legal Services each received $25,000 to manage small community grants. These funds will empower a diverse range of organizations to host events that align with the campaign’s objectives. An additional $150,000 will be distributed among Stopping Family Violence, the Perth-based social innovation organization ThirdStory, and CWSW to enhance the reach and effectiveness of the campaign messaging, with a particular focus on engaging men and boys.
Campaign Focus and Activities
The 16 Days in WA campaign, now in its ninth year, runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day). This year’s theme, “Stopping Family and Domestic Violence: Play your part,” encourages individuals to contribute to cultural change by challenging harmful behaviors and attitudes that perpetuate violence.
For the first time, the campaign will actively target men and boys, urging them to champion respect for women and to take meaningful actions to support the cause throughout the state. Funded activities will include workshops, morning teas, markets, silent marches, a community mural, and a candlelight vigil hosted by the Goldfields Women’s Refuge Association. Additionally, an art exhibition will be facilitated by MercyCare Mirrabooka.
According to Jessica Stojkovski, the Minister for Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, the campaign presents a vital opportunity for all Western Australians to participate. She stated, “I encourage all Western Australians to get involved with the 16 Days in WA campaign to help stop family and domestic violence before it starts.” Stojkovski emphasized the importance of community involvement, whether by attending local events, addressing inappropriate behaviors, or fostering conversations with loved ones.
She further noted, “16 Days in WA is a key part of the Cook Labor Government’s response to family and domestic violence – ensuring we continue to build safe and inclusive communities.” The government’s commitment is backed by a record investment of $500 million, focusing on prevention, accountability, and safety to ensure that every woman can feel secure.
For more details on the recipients of the grants and information about the upcoming community events, interested parties can visit the official government website at [wa.gov.au](https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-communities/16-days-wa-events).
