Get involved with 16 Days of Activism

Not all disrespect leads to violence against women – but all violence against women begins with disrespect.

Communities across the world will join for the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (16 Days of Activism) campaign, from 25 November – 10 December. This is an important time to raise awareness of the many forms of gender-based violence, and promote gender equity to end it.

Victoria recognises elder abuse as a form of family violence. Elder abuse can include gender-based violence against older women.

There are gendered patterns to elder abuse. For some, this can be a continuation of a long-term pattern of intimate partner violence.

Elder abuse is perpetrated by a person of trust, like an adult child, intimate partner, relative, friend or unpaid caregiver. It can be physical, financial, psychological or emotional, social, sexual and can include neglect.

This year’s United Nations global theme is “Unite to end digital violence against all women and girls”. Digital violence is one of the fastest-growing forms of abuse.

According to the 2021 National Elder Abuse Prevalence Study, women are more likely than men to receive assistance with finances from their children. In some cases, these helping arrangements may facilitate financial abuse.

The study also reports that receiving assistance with bills, budgeting and banking increases as we age, and shifting onto digital platforms, this may increase the risk of violence for older people online.

In Victoria, the headline event is the 17th annual Walk Against Family Violence in Melbourne CBD on Friday 28 November. This event is an important opportunity to walk in solidarity with victim survivors and take action to prevent family violence and violence against women.

The Walk Against Family Violence will begin at 10am on Friday 28 November at Birrarung Marr (Upper Terrace) in Melbourne’s city centre. Participants will then walk together 700 metres to Treasury Gardens, where there will be a lineup of powerful speakers.

For more information about 16 Days of Activism and attending the Walk Against Family Violence, visit the Respect Victoria website. More regional events can be found at Safe and Equal’s 16 Days of Activism webpage.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, help is available:

• For emergencies or immediate danger, call 000 and ask for the police.
• For Victoria’s 24/7 family violence response centre, call Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.
• For in-person, phone or online support, The Orange Door provides free support 9am-5pm weekdays. Find an Orange Door location near you.