The White Ribbon event is held annually to raise awareness of domestic violence, an important social issue which we can end by working together. 

On White Ribbon day an independent review of sentencing for murder and manslaughter offences, including those involving domestic and family violence was announced by the Government.

The tragedy of domestic violence homicide claimed 28 lives in NSW in 2017-18, representing 44 per cent of all homicide victims in that period. 

The Sentencing Council will examine how sentencing decisions affect families of homicide victims and the devastating impact of domestic violence on the community.

Reducing domestic violence reoffending by 25 per cent by 2021 is one of our priorities. 

We want to make sure the courts have all the powers they need to impose appropriate sentences on killers – including domestic violence offenders - and can lock up the worst for life.

Earlier this month I announced almost $17,000 for a Gunnedah Shire Council project to ‘drive out’ domestic violence and bullying.

 I’ve been working with our communities across the region to raise awareness of this important topic. 

There is no excuse for domestic violence and I’m thankful that previous campaigns against domestic violence in Gunnedah had proven successful in engaging the community.

The project will promote zero tolerance of the behaviour via banners on the main-street and advertising on street sweepers and garbage trucks. 

Everyone gets their rubbish collected so what better way to ensure the message reaches all corners of the community.

We are ensuring domestic violence remains high on the public agenda so the community understands it’s a serious crime that should be reported to police and not dealt with behind closed doors in people’s homes.

The government recently introduced legislation to guard against cyberbullying and other forms of online abuse. These laws will be backed up by a campaign to protect young people in the school yard and online. 

Reported incidents of domestic violence-related assault in the Gunnedah Local Government Area have fallen by almost 35 per cent over the past five years, from 95 in 2013 to 62 last year. 

I’m urging the community to stand up, join the conversation and take the White Ribbon oath never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women. 

Communities just like ours play a vital role in changing attitudes and driving local change. From our school yards and workplaces, to our sporting teams – we can all stand together and say that violence against women is not accepted in our or any community.

For more information about White Ribbon Day and to take the oath visit www.whiteribbon.org.au/day  

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence please call the 24-hour NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson