While it is commonly understood as physical violence, family and domestic violence may also include emotional or verbal abuse, intimidation, spiritual or cultural abuse, sexual abuse, or restriction of access to finances or social connections.

To recognise members of our immediate and broader community who experience, or have experienced, family and domestic violence, Murdoch continues its support of the annual 16 Days in WA - Stop Violence Against Women campaign.  

Running from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) through to December 10 (Human Rights Day) each year, the campaign takes its inspiration from the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

In Australia we should be aware and uncomfortable with these facts (source Our Watch): 

• 1 in 4 Australian women (23.0%) has experienced physical or sexual violence by a current or former intimate partner since age 15. 
• 1 in 4 Australian women (23.0%) has experienced emotional abuse by a current or former partner. 
• Australian women are nearly three times more likely than men to experience violence from an intimate partner. 
• 95% of all victims of violence – whether women or men – experience violence from a male perpetrator.

What's on at Murdoch? 

This year, we commemorate the 16 Days in WA campaign through a call to action and advocacy. How will you show your support? 

• #itsinthebag campaign - 20 November

Murdoch is pleased to support Share the Dignity and their #itsinthebag campaign that directly benefits women in crisis, who may be fleeing domestic violence situations with little but the clothes on their back.

• Take part in the Silent March - 7 December

Join your Murdoch community in the annual Silent March, Perth CBD, to honour those who have lost their lives, those who have survived, and those who continue to experience domestic violence. 

Students can also submit an expression of interest to attend domestic violence alert training. Run by Lifeline WA, this three-hour interactive session aims to build knowledge and capacity to provide appropriate support to women and children. To register your interest, please email AWE@murdoch.edu.au. Places will be confirmed on 1 December.

Know someone who needs support? 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, the following support is available.  

• Free Murdoch University Counselling Service is available Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.
• Crisis Care Helpline: Call the team on 9223 1111 for 24/7 advice and support for people in crises and needing urgent help.
• Lifeline WA: Call Lifeline on 131 114 at any time, or text between 6pm-midnight (AEDT) on 0477 131 114. 
• Relationships Australia: Contact the team on 1300 364 277 for relationship support services.
• Djinda Service Relationships Australia: Dial 1300 364 277 for support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children affected by family violence and/or sexual assault. 
• 1800Respect: A confidential telephone and online counselling for those impacted by sexual assault via 1800 737 732.
• MensLine Australia: Contact the team via 1300 789 978 for a confidential telephone and online counselling support service.
• Qlife: Offers counselling services for LGBTIQA+ individuals impacted by domestic and family violence via 1800 737 732.
• Family Violence Service: A free service for family violence victims who may need assistance with court support, information and referral to other services via 1800 600 476.
• Legal Aid WA Domestic Violence Legal Unit: Contact 1300 650 579 for legal advice and assistance to women about family violence issues, including help applying for a restraining order.