NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner, Dr Hannah Tonkin, recently met with community leaders to address domestic and family violence in the lower north shore.
Mayor of North Sydney Zoe Baker, Mayor of Mosman Ann Marie Kimber, Mayor of Lane Cove Merri Southwood, and Mayor of Willoughby City Tanya Taylor, alongside police, government agencies, Indigenous elders, not-for-profits such as Mary’s House services, and advocacy groups all came together to jointly sign a commitment to tackle DFV.
‘Domestic and family violence is a national emergency. In 2024, 78 women were killed due to gender-based violence in Australia,’ says Mayor Baker. ‘We need coordinated strategies and the commitment and resources of all stakeholders – including service providers, police, community leaders and all levels of government – to prevent and eradicate domestic violence.’
The signed commitment stated a list of actionable promises. These included fostering a culture of zero tolerance to violence, implementing policies and programs that support victims and survivors, advocating for improved policy responses, and increasing funding and resources to support organisations dealing with DFV, among other actions.
‘Local councils are in a unique position to lead at the community level, build trust with residents, respond to local concerns and drive lasting change,’ says NSW Dr Hannah Tonkin.
