The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. This is a call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls. This year’s theme is “Orange the world – Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect.” Highlighting the need to unite to advocate for change.


CORE Community Services has been providing domestic violence service since 1996 – an essential service to Fairfield local government area. Within the last year, CORE Community Services has seen the number of clients accessing its service increase to over 250 victims. In the last 12 months, the number of domestic violence reported incidences across NSW is a staggering 31 692. (BOSCAR NSW 2020).
The alarming figure indicates there is strong association between domestic violence and the pandemic. “We can’t solve this issue alone. We need businesses, community services and individuals to change the conversation that allows violence to go unchallenged.” Juana Reinoso, CEO, CORE Community Services stated.


Working within Fairfield LGA for over 40 years, CORE Community Services has built strong links to try and overcome the barriers victims face, but know there is a lot more work to do.
In addition to providing essential services to the community, CORE Community Services as part of the South West Sydney Domestic Violence Committee (SWSDVC) will host a virtual conference. This year the topics are focused on “Coming Back Stronger”, with headlining keynote speaker, Dr. Allan Wade, (Canada) and a panel of amazing speakers.


Domestic & Family Violence Conference: Coming Back Stronger (Online) https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/domestic-violence-conference-coming-back-stronger-tickets-122361222711

For more information about the UN’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/take-action/16-days-of-activism

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References
BOSCAR NSW, Domestic violence statistics for NSW
https://www.bocsar.nsw.gov.au/Pages/bocsar_pages/Domestic-Violence.aspx