Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called an urgent national cabinet meeting on Wednesday in response to the call for action against domestic violence.
Tens of thousands of men and women took to the streets of Brisbane, Melbourne, the Gold Coast and Canberra for a third consecutive day of protests today.
Albanese arrived at Canberra’s march this afternoon where he told the crowd of demonstrators that violence against women will be the sole item on the agenda for Wednesday’s cabinet meeting.
The Prime Minister drew a mixed response from the crowd as advocates had been pushing for a national emergency to be declared.
“We need to change the approach by all governments, because it’s not enough to support victims,” Albanese said.
“We need to focus on the perpetrators and focus on prevention.
“On Wednesday morning, I will convene a national cabinet that has been agreed with every Premier and Chief Minister.”
Albanese said it is important to make sure the solution “isn’t just up to women”.
“It’s up to men to change men’s behaviour as well, to stand up,” he said.
“And yes, people do need to be made accountable and I’ll be accountable for what my government does.”
Marches in Sydney and Adelaide yesterday followed a demonstration in Newcastle on Friday.
At least 26 women have died from alleged gender-based violence in Australia this year, according to data compiled by anti-violence advocates.
Nationals leader David Littleproud told Weekend Today this morning that gender-based violence was a “scourge” on society.
He said more government resources were needed to provide safe shelters for victims.
“I understand there’s not even safe places for women to flee to in some of our communities, but it’s also about that education piece,” he said.
“We’ve got to stop the next generation from slipping in this. Young men understanding their role in society and their responsibility in society.”
According to advocacy group Our Watch, 39 per cent of women nationally have experienced violence since the age of 15.
About 27 per cent have experienced violence, emotional abuse, or economic abuse by a cohabitating partner since the age of 15.
If you are in immediate danger call Triple Zero (000).
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