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This article contains references to domestic violence.
Hollywood royalty and sporting champions are starring in a campaign to stamp out family violence that’s set to debut at a major footy clash.
Actors Hugh Jackman and Eric Bana, cricketer Usman Khawaja, comedian Hamish Blake, AFL footballers and other high-profile Australian men took part in a video initiated by the head of the family court.
“Family violence harms too many Australians each year,” Jackman says in the video.
“Family Violence is a national disgrace,” Bana adds.
The video will be shown during the Collingwood-Hawthorn AFL game on Friday night at the MCG and features the captains of both teams.
“Let’s lead by example and show our children and young men that violence is never OK,” Hawks captain James Sicily says.
Magpies captain Darcy Moore says all men have a role to play in helping to end men’s violence against women.
“By calling out disrespect when we see it and when we hear it and never making excuses for violence, all men can help end violence against women in our community,” he says.
Retired NRL star Johnathan Thurston, musician Vance Joy and comedian Mick Molloy also lent their voices to the campaign.
Federal Circuit and Family Court Chief Justice Will Alstergren initiated the project, with the aim that the video highlights behavior while emphasizing the necessity for men to engage in discussions about domestic violence.
He called for greater wraparound supports for both victim-survivors and perpetrators.
“Something must be done to prevent this behaviour before it occurs, and men need to be part of that conversation and the solution,” Alstergren said.
“Men who hold leadership positions, especially in an area that sees some of the worst of gendered violence, should feel compelled to be part of the push for change.
“For Australians, sport is the perfect arena in which to start these conversations.”
If you or someone you know is impacted by family and domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
