The City of Parramatta is joining forces with community members and groups to take action against domestic violence with the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign focusing on the growing and often hidden issue of digital abuse.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign calling on communities around the world to speak out, take action and work toward a future free from gender-based violence.

Running from 25 November until 10 December, the City will roll out a four-week social media campaign as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence movement. 

The campaign will raise awareness about how digital tools like phones, apps, social media and tracking devices are increasingly being misused to harass, intimidate and control.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said it’s time to break the silence and bring digital abuse into the spotlight to remind people that they are not alone.

“This is about education, empathy and action because everyone deserves to feel safe both online and offline – whether they are at home or in the community,” Cr Zaiter said.

“Abuse doesn’t always leave bruises, it can happen through phones, apps and messages and it can be just as harmful.

“By speaking up and shining a light on this issue, we are helping victims feel seen, heard and supported. Our City stands united in saying abuse in any form is never okay.”

This year’s campaign supports the UNiTE movement’s global theme – ‘UNiTE to end digital violence against all women and girls’.

The key events happening across the City include:

• Wish Tree Installation: the PHIVE foyer will host a community Wish Tree from 25 November until 10 December where visitors are invited to write and hang messages of hope, resilience and support – building a visual tribute to survivors and a collective call for change.
• Walk to Say No to Domestic Violence: the Rotary Club of Parramatta will host a community walk from Mays Hill Oval to Parramatta Square on Sunday 26 Novemberfrom 12pm-2pm to stand in solidarity with those affected by domestic violence.
• UNiTE to End Digital Violence Forum: the Parramatta Cumberland Family and Domestic Violence Prevention Committee will host a community forum on Monday 1Decemberfrom 10:30am-2pm at The Holroyd Centre in Merrylands bringing together experts, advocates and locals to discuss strategies to combat digital abuse.
• Finding Affection Documentary Screening: the Civic Gallery at PHIVE will screen the powerful journey of participants in the SNEH theatre project on Thursday 4 December from 6pm-8pm using storytelling to address issues of domestic and family violence within their communities.

This campaign is part of the City of Parramatta’s ongoing commitment to the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Action Plan which was endorsed by Council in 2022.

Visit 16 Days of Activism to learn more and see how you can participate.