Tony Pasin (Barker, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I was privileged to be able to join the Limestone Coast Family Violence Action Group for their annual White Ribbon breakfast last Friday in Mount Gambier. I want to acknowledge the efforts of Le-Anne Thomson, chairperson of that group, and the other wonderful people who work tirelessly to help stop the scourge of violence against women and their children. As a White Ribbon Ambassador, I am proud to be involved with the world's largest movement of men and boys working to end men's violence against women and girls and working to promote gender equality, healthy relationships and the new vision for masculinity.

White Ribbon Australia is part of this global movement and aims to create an Australian society in which all women can live in safety, free from violence and abuse. White Ribbon Day, tomorrow, will see events held across Barker. In Berri, the community will gather to take the White Ribbon oath; at the Cave Gardens in Mount Gambier, men from across the city will join together to test the decibel meter for the loudest shout. For the ninth year since its inception, the sound of men shouting 'no' will echo throughout the centre of Mount Gambier, raising further awareness for this great cause. Last year this event saw 40 men participate; organisers are expecting that to rise to over 80 this year. The 'loudest shout' has now spread to Murray Bridge, where the event is also taking place tomorrow in conjunction with a march down Bridge Street.

For my part, I am proud to make the following pledge in this place: I swear never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women. That is my oath today.