December 2, 202516 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign dedicated to ending violence against women and girls. This worldwide initiative began on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) and concludes on Human Rights Day (10 December).
The United Nations defines violence against women as “any act of gender-based violence that causes or could cause physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of harm or coercion, in public or private life.” The World Health Organization recognises gender-based violence as both a global public health and human rights priority.
In Australia, one in three women experience violence, and on average one woman per week is killed by an intimate partner.
Gender inequality is the primary driver of this violence. Violence against women and girls is a manifestation of inequality and discrimination based on gender, race and other power imbalances. Women in Australia continue to be disproportionately impacted by family, domestic and sexual violence.
Promoting gender equality is essential in addressing this issue. Gender equality means that people of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities in every aspect of life—social, economic, and political. It is important because it promotes fairness, empowers everyone to reach their potential and helps prevent violence and discrimination by challenging power imbalances.
The 16 Days Campaign is an important reminder that violence is not only a community concern but is also an important workplace issue. At Northern Health, we remain committed to promoting a safe and respectful workplace environment where all employees feel valued, supported and protected.
Tanya Ellis, Strengthening Hospital Response to Family Violence (SHRFV) Program Manager, explains that violence does not discriminate. She highlights that during the campaign, it is important to recognise that our staff members, volunteers and students also experience violence in their personal lives.
“Family violence is an epidemic, and research indicates that female clinicians working in the public health sector are at higher risk of experiencing family violence compared to the general population.”
“At Northern Health we receive multiple family violence disclosures from our staff members each week. This issue can affect the safety, wellbeing and work performance of the affected staff member and impact colleagues through risks to safety, disrupted work, reduced concentration, absenteeism and even resignation. A supportive workplace and remaining connected to employment are significant protective factors in mitigating this risk,” she adds.
Maria Soo, Workforce Planning and Project Director, emphasises that addressing gender-based violence is essential to building a fair, equitable and productive workplace. She notes that violence—whether physical, psychological or financial—undermines employee wellbeing and creates barriers to participation. Strong policies, accountable leadership and a culture grounded in respect and inclusion are key to ensuring the safety and dignity of all employees. Maria states, “When employees feel safe and empowered, they can fully participate and thrive. Supporting safety and equality strengthens our organisational resilience and long-term success.”
Northern Health is committed to providing a workplace in which violence is never tolerated or excused. We aim to play an important role in the prevention of violence and are committed to providing a workplace environment where it is safe to make a disclosure and receive support and access to safety.
The SHRFV Team and the OHS & Wellbeing Team have worked together to establish the Family Violence Workplace Support Program. The program is designed to identify, respond to and support our staff members at risk of family violence. A range of workplace support initiatives have been implemented:
- Family Violence Contact Officers (FVCOs) – have been implemented in the OHS & Wellbeing Team and are designated senior staff members specifically trained to identify and respond to family violence in the workplace. They also provide guidance and consultation to Managers. FVCOs can be contacted on T: 8405 8034 or via Email: nhfamilyviolencecontactofficer@nh.org.au
- Family Violence Workplace Safety Plans
- Family Violence Leave
- Referrals to Specialist Services
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)– free counselling and emotional support for all staff members and volunteers. EAP also has Specialist Family Violence Counsellors available. T:1300 687 327
- People & Culture Business Partners – provide guidance on leave, flexible work arrangements and workplace adjustments
Staff members, who are experiencing violence, are encouraged to disclose to their Manager, a FVCO or the SHRFV Program to access these workplace support entitlements.
Northern Health encourages our staff members and wider community to get involved in the campaign by wearing something orange, visiting the display in the main foyer, calling out disrespectful behaviour and having conversations about what constitutes healthy relationships.
The SHRFV Program is available to provide specialist consultation and facilitate family violence education. Please contact the SHRFV Program if you would like to organise training in your area (T: 8405 8519).
For further information and to participate in events please click here.
Pictured in featured image (L-R): Jessie Zhang and Christine Nguyen (Workforce project officers), Maria Soo, Workforce Planning and Project Director, Tanya Ellis, Strengthening Hospital Response to Family Violence (SHRFV) Program Manager and Ricky Busuttil, Executive assistant to the Chief Executive and Chief People Officer.
