Walk Against Family Violence walk

Council's Role in Preventing Family Violence

Family violence is a serious issue that affects individuals, families, and communities. 

The City of Greater Dandenong is committed to:

  • Supporting victim-survivors with timely assistance
  • Challenging attitudes that excuse violence
  • Promoting gender equality and respect

Through advocacy, programs, and partnerships, we work to create a safer, more inclusive community.

Greater Dandenong Walk Against Family Violence

Each year, Council hosts the Walk against Family Violence to mark White Ribbon Day and raise awareness.

Join us for the 2025 Walk on Tuesday 25 November, starting at Dandenong Market and finishing at Harmony Square. Together, we will walk together to end family violence.

Council Initiatives

  • Workplace Respect, Equity and Support for Staff Experiencing Family Violence: Training is conducted to prevent harassment and bullying, while paid leave and support is extended to staff affected by family violence.
  • Public Awareness: Events like the Walk against Family Violence highlight the issue, encourage accountability, and share information on support services
  • Community Engagement: Programs affirm gender equality and respectful relationships through schools, youth and family services, maternal and child health, and local initiatives.
  • Collaboration: Partnerships with community organisations deliver prevention projects and support services which address family violence and promote equal opportunity for women and men.
  • Housing Advocacy: Promoting safe, affordable housing for women and families escaping violence.
  • Leadership and Consultation: Ensuring women’s voices are represented in decision making and community leadership.
  • Sport and Recreation: Facilitating equal participation and safe facilities for women and girls to enable them to participate in organized sport. Sports clubs are encouraged to provide female participants with safe, appropriate facilities, and fair access to sporting grounds.
  • Advocacy: Advocates for better funding family violence services and housing solutions. 
On

2023 Walk Against Family Violence

In 2023, more than 500 people walked from the Dandenong Market to the Drum Theatre. They heard from 

  • Eric Edwards
  • CEO Jacqui Weatherill
  • Mayor Cr Lana Formoso
  • Victim survivor Melanie Rowe
  • Victim survivor Liana Papoutsis 

2022 Walk Against Family Violence


In 2022, more than 600 people walked from the Dandenong Market to the Drum Theatre. They heard from 

  • Anti-violence campaigner Tarang Chawla
  • Women with Disabilities, Nadia Mattiazzo
  • Superintendent Jo Stafford

2019 Walk Against Family Violence

Council held the 2019 Walk against Family Violence in November. Listen to the heartbreaking story of guest speaker Susan Berg, a survivor of domestic violence.

2018 Walk Against Family Violence

Council held the 2018 Walk against Family Violence on Tuesday 20 November. It featured guest speaker Jen Harwood, successful business coach, motivational speaker and domestic violence survivor.

2017 Walk Against Family Violence

Around 1000 people attended Dandenong's 'Walk Against Family Violence' on Wednesday 22 November. It featured speeches from football legend Kevin Sheedy, and Rebecca, a former victim of family violence.
 

2016 Walk Against Family Violence

Council held the 2016 Walk Against Family Violence on Tuesday 22 November. Those who joined heard a speech and songs from popular entertainer, Colleen Hewett.

Colleen Hewett performs at Dandenong's Walk Against Family Violence

2015 Walk Against Family Violence

Around 700 people attended Dandenong’s ‘Walk against Family Violence’ to commemorate White Ribbon Day on Tuesday 24 November 2015. 

2014 Walk Against Family Violence


Around 700 people attended Dandenong’s ‘Walk against Family Violence’ on Friday 28 November 2014, to commemorate White Ribbon Day.

Walkers heard from the former Police Chief Commissioner, Christine Nixon. She spoke about the impact of family violence upon individuals, families and the community. She also talked about how we can help prevent these crimes.

2013 Walk Against Family Violence


In 2013, more than 500 people walked from the Dandenong Market to the Drum Theatre. They heard from 

  • anti-violence campaigner Phil Cleary
  • Magistrate Leslie Fleming
  • Assistant Commissioner Luke Cornelius
  • Greater Dandenong Mayor, Jim Memeti.