50 clubs to tackle domestic and family violence
Tackling domestic and family violence is now a priority has become a priority for more than 50 clubs from across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, and the ACT.
The clubs have been brought together by Mounties Group with shared vision to build a community where every individual is respected, supported, and where clubs are recognised as trusted safe spaces.
The committee's formation was announced during a two-day training session on domestic violence prevention, the first of its kind in the club industry, organided by Mounties Group. Staff and representatives from each club participated in the training, which provided practical guidance on implementing strategies to support victims and prevent violence within their venues.
“It is more important than ever that we, as an industry, take proactive action in supporting our workforce and community, but also that we begin the difficult and somewhat uncomfortable discussions about the products and services that we offer,” Mounties Group community engagement manager Arely Carrion said.
“How do these products and services contribute as drivers of violence, and what can we do as an industry, a workplace, and a club, to minimise this risk in the back of our mind, knowing that we must never lose sight of the fact that violence is a choice, and everyone can choose non-violence in all relationships or situations? We must not fall into the trap of excusing the actions of violence and abuse.”
According to Mounties Group CEO Dale Hunt the implementation of the initiative is a matter of urgency.
“When you consider that 10 years ago the government announced that domestic violence is a national crisis, and here we are, a decade later, and one in four women are still experiencing domestic violence, there simply hasn’t been enough help,” he said.
“It’s not a matter anymore of saying that’s the government’s job, or that’s the certain other groups jobs, it’s time for us all, as a community, as people that care about each other, to come together and finally deal with a national crisis.”
The training aimed to empower club leaders and staff with the skills to recognise signs of domestic violence, offer support, and take proactive steps to combat abuse. Committee members are now responsible for applying these insights across their venues to create meaningful, lasting change. NSW Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison, attended the event and commended the club industry for its forward-thinking approach to tackling this critical issue.
“The club industry has got an important part to play … and we want to partner with you. With everybody working together, we are going to drive down and we’re going to eliminate domestic and family violence. We know that there’s much more to be done. As a government, we are deeply committed to doing this work. As a minister, I am deeply committed to doing this work. We can’t do it without you.”
Jonathan Jackson, 26th November 2024
