Foreword

Designed as a grassroots primary prevention project, theDVproject:2650 was implemented to promote and normalise gender equality in public and private life. A plan was created to develop dynamic, creative campaigns, engage with regional business and education sectors and to create organisational change within Wagga Wagga City Council. As the largest regional city in NSW, there was a strong obligation to shift the rate of domestic and family violence that was nearly 30% higher than the NSW average. The motivation was to encourage the community to implement long-term primary prevention initiatives to begin to change the narrative of Wagga Wagga’s domestic violence rates. If we look at where Wagga Wagga started on this journey in 2016, it’s clear to see we have made positive strides forward. Community members are more aware of the impacts of domestic violence and other forms of abuse, there is increased knowledge on where to find support, and community attitudes are shifting towards more positive views of relationships. Community awareness and culture change is an evolving process, but the takeaway message is that while it will take generations to prevent violence against women and their children, it’s important to start and not get discouraged. Council’s commitment to this project and primary prevention of domestic and family violence is one that will carry on in Wagga Wagga. I would like to see everybody embrace the uncomfortable conversations and continue to drive action in the community as ambassadors for change.

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM