EveryMan is proud to stand for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, calling for urgent reform to create a future where all women are safe, empowered, and treated as equals. This year, we are shining a spotlight on the systemic barriers and societal narratives that perpetuate violence against women, emphasising the need for education, flexible frameworks, and holistic support systems.

Jo, EveryMan’s Partner and Advocacy Support Coordinator recently spoke to us about the immense courage it takes for women to leave violent relationships and the critical gaps in support and education that often leave women and children at risk.

Education as a Tool for Empowerment

One of the root causes of gender-based violence is the cycle of dependency reinforced by societal norms. Jo points out the lack of financial literacy and relationship education as key factors trapping women in unsafe environments.

“Sex education should go beyond anatomy and teach financial independence. We need to empower individuals from a young age to manage their money, spot financial abuse, and recognise that love doesn’t mean control.”

“Advocating for these lessons to be embedded into school curriculums is a small step but one that could save lives, giving young people the tools to build financial security, understand healthy relationships, identify coercive control and avoid cycles of abuse is really important.”

“Romanticised narratives, like those in fairy tales, teach girls to wait for Prince Charming. The reality is that love bombing is a red flag, not a fairy tale,” Jo explains.

Systemic Barriers That Undermine Safety

Despite the bravery it takes for women to leave violent relationships, it is the most dangerous time to leave – meaning the right support is crucial. Limited refuge housing, restrictive childcare options, and policy gaps frequently leave women choosing between ongoing abuse and homelessness. Many women also remain in abusive relationships out of fear—fear that leaving could expose their children to more harm.

Additionally, restrictive policies mean women on temporary visas and those in regional areas often face big challenges. Geographic constraints are a big issue, jurisdictional red tape, and underfunded outreach programs further exacerbate the problem.

Jo recounts, “We’ve had cases where women and children aren’t safe in a refuge because the abuser’s network was nearby. But relocating her interstate? That’s nearly impossible under current policies.”

Shifting the Narrative

We often hear the question, “Why doesn’t she leave?” which has long dominated discussions around domestic violence. This framing not only blames victims but also obscures the immense risks and systemic failures they navigate. Jo emphasises the importance of changing this narrative.

Instead of asking “why didn’t she leave”, we should be asking what barriers stopped her from leaving. 

“Leaving a violent relationship should be a step towards safety and hope, not a leap into uncertainty,” Jo says. 

“We need to move beyond band-aid solutions and invest in systemic reforms that ensure women have the tools and support they need to thrive.”

A Call to Action

This 16 Days of Activism, EveryMan is calling for reforms that prioritise women’s safety, independence, and empowerment. Governments, organisations, and communities must work together to address systemic failures and foster cultural change.

For more information on EveryMan’s Violence Prevention Services visit: www.everyman.org.au. 

For more information on the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence , visit: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence | UN Women – Headquarters