Today is White Ribbon Day and communities across Australia have hosted events to raise awareness to prevent men’s violence against women and girls.

The day is a significant part of a month-long focus on violence, with White Ribbon Month forming a global campaign running from November 18 to December 13.

The campaign's goal is to end violence against women and girls by promoting gender equity, healthy relationships, and a compassionate view of masculinity. 

Many communities across Australia have held events today to support the cause including organisations in the Bogan Shire.

Dee Walsh of the Wangaaypuwan Wellness group said the local community organised a morning of activities for the community.

“Janine Tulenew from Mission Australia put together a program in the park with other local Nyngan services such as Red Cross Community Hub, Catholic Care and Wangaaypuwan Wellness.

“The morning provided information for attendees and to pay respect to the lives that have been lost to domestic and sexual violence across Australia.

“Sadly 85 women and 15 children have lost their lives this year,” said Mrs Walsh.

Local students taking the pledge against violence at Nyngan - image Dee Walsh

One Western area woman took to Facebook asking people to take a moment today to think about domestic violence and what change you can make to help.

“For me it’s to tell anyone who needs to hear it, you do deserve better! You can leave.

“To our younger generation of girls, don’t stand for it, look for the red flags and always be a survivor not a victim.

“Many years I was a domestic violence victim and this year marks 14 years as a survivor, remember to speak up and reach out for help,” she said.

White Ribbon Australia runs programs in schools, workplaces, and communities to address the underlying societal attitudes that drive violence against women. 

The Australian Bureau of Statistics highlights heinous data that violence against women is on the rise and programs to fight the issue head on are imperative with educating boys at school a priority.

“It’s hard to watch the numbers rise of women being injured or worse murdered,” said a concerned western area man.

“There is an unhealthy culture around alcohol and violence, power struggles and lack of education to cope with issues that arise in life situations,” he said.

“I honestly believe it all starts at home. We must look inward and start with how we, as men, treat women and make sure we are sending the right message to our sons, which can begin from birth.

“Be good to your mother, your wife, your sister, your daughters, all the women in your family and your sons will see your behaviour and follow your lead.”

“It is vital, it is simply a matter of respect.”