Communities and Justice

Pubs throw support behind domestic violence prevention campaign

Last published on 19 Aug 2020 

Pubs and hotels across NSW have thrown their weight behind the NSW Government’s Speak Out campaign that encourages domestic violence victim-survivors to call the State’s helpline for support.

Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said the campaign would be expanded through a new partnership with the Australian Hotels Association (AHA).

Mr Speakman announced the expansion of the campaign at the Bomaderry Hotel today – one of more than 1,700 venues receiving posters for display in their venue this week.

“We know from victim-survivors and frontline domestic violence workers that one of the challenges during COVID-19 has been finding a safe place to seek help,” Mr Speakman said.

“A recent Australian Institute of Criminology report also found that domestic violence had risen during the pandemic, but a large proportion of victims were not reporting to police – demonstrating the timely role this campaign can play in promoting other support services.

“I’m thrilled that the AHA and their members have now come on board to help ensure that the critical messages in this campaign continue to reach far and wide across the community.

“I want victim-survivors to know that the trained counsellors at the Domestic Violence Line are there for you. They will listen to you, they will believe you, and they will help you.”

AHA NSW Director, Liquor and Policing, John Green said domestic violence is never acceptable.

“Talented women make up a large percentage of our workforce and AHA NSW is proud to take a stand to support this worthwhile campaign,” Mr Green said.

“Hotels are part of the community and our members want it known domestic violence has absolutely no place in society.”

The campaign features the words “Speak Out” painted on the lips of people of different ages and cultural backgrounds to highlight that domestic violence does not discriminate.

To date, the campaign has been in shopping centres including restrooms, near supermarkets and pharmacies, at bus stops, and in hospitals and medical centres where victim-survivors may feel safe to contact the NSW Domestic Violence Line.

The Domestic Violence Line can help victim-survivors to develop a safety plan, find accommodation, including for their children, provide information about available services and advise on how best to contact police, lawyers and the courts.

This campaign builds on the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to reduce domestic and family violence, including the recent NSW and Commonwealth investment of more than $21 million to boost frontline services across the State in response to COVID-19.

The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 64 63) is a free 24/7 confidential service. Interpreters are also available.

For more information, visit Speak Out

Download Media Release: Pubs throw support behind domestic violence prevention campaign (PDF , 113.3 KB)

Last updated:

13 Apr 2023