TASMANIA Police say family violence complaints have increased by 400 compared to last year, and hope a new campaign will stop it before it starts.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Television advertisements will hit airwaves on Sunday as part of a $30 million national campaign.
The state government is contributing $330,000 towards the campaign which is called Stop It At The Start.
Human Services Minister Jacquie Petrusma said the campaign, which will feature on television and radio and in newspapers, is all about adults having conversations with young people about respect.
“We want to stop violence before it starts,” Mrs Petrusma said.
“We need to change the culture that is leading to family violence even starting.
“As parents, teachers, coaches, employers and role models, we can all have a positive influence on young people and set the standard for what is and what’s not acceptable, right from the start.”
Mrs Petrusma said the campaign “marries up very well” with her government’s $26 million family violence action plan.
Tasmania Police Commissioner Darren Hine said since family violence became a focus, the reporting of incidences was increasing.
“There’s been an increase of 400 this year compared to last year,” Mr Hine said.
“We see this as a good thing – if we don’t know about it we can’t address the issue,” he said.
“We know there is underreporting, and we want to make sure we have a community where people do come forward and get help.”
Mr Hine said the campaign would highlight the cultural issues that contribute to domestic violence.
“There is a definite disconnect between some people’s attitudes and culture towards what is acceptable behaviour in a modern community,” he said.
“It’s about starting the conversation with our young people, because young people need to grow up with the right attitudes and have respectful relationships with one another.”
The campaign features a one-minute TV ad in which people dismiss or encourage gender stereotypes and violence against women and girls.
In one scenario, a young boy slams a door on a young girl, causing her to fall over.
"He just did it 'cause he likes you," the mother explains.
More information can be found at www.respect.gov.au
