Tens of thousands of people have marched across the country calling for an end to violence against women. The Prime Minister addressed the crowd in Canberra where he called the issue a 'national crisis'.

Canberra

Tens of thousands of Australians have taken to the streets in a concerted effort to call for an end to violence against women. The demonstrations, marked by their magnitude and scope, have seen people from diverse regions - from rural localities to major urban centers - come together under a common cause. The movement has garnered substantial attention and support, culminating in a significant rally in Canberra, where the Prime Minister addressed the gathering crowd, recognizing the enormity of the issue at hand. 

The Prime Minister, speaking at the rally outside Parliament House in Canberra, acknowledged the severity of gendered violence, declaring it a "national crisis". His presence and address at the rally underscored the government's acknowledgment of the need for decisive action against this pervasive issue. Despite initial confusion over whether he would be given the platform to speak, his message was clear: a concerted, sustained effort is required to combat violence against women.

The rallies, extending across three consecutive days, have emphasized the urgent call for change across the country. Participants have used this platform to share their personal experiences with gender-based violence, recount the tragedies of those lost, and advocate for a safer future for women in all spheres of life. These stories highlight the undeniable need for societal and structural change to ensure women's safety and dignity.

Amidst the demonstration of solidarity and demand for action, there has been a clear call for men to engage actively in the movement against gendered violence. The participation of men in the rallies has been noted as a positive step towards challenging and changing harmful behaviors and attitudes that perpetuate violence against women.

The widespread nature of these rallies and the diverse participation of people across Australia reflect a collective aspiration for a future where women are safe and respected in all aspects of life. As the country grapples with this issue, the involvement of leaders and individuals alike emphasizes the critical need for continued attention, action, and support to eradicate violence against women.



Prime Minister joins rally calling for end to gendered violence

He was a listener on the lawns outside Parliament House. The Prime Minister won among the many, as the nation looks for leadership to stop violence against women. I know, and that's why I'm here. That's why I'm here. I know that we all must do better. Anthony Albanese's presence at this afternoon's rally in Canberra wasn't without incident, with confusion over if he was going to speak. We did ask to speak, myself and Katie, and we're told that that wasn't possible and that's fine. I respect the organiser's right to do that. He also made a declaration. And this is a national crisis. We need to address this in a serious way, week by week, month by month, year by year. This is the third consecutive day of rallies, where leaders have joined the cause. We want to see a state where domestic, sexual, family violence, coercive control, all of that is stamped out. The marches have stretched the country, from regional areas to capital cities. And the crowds have been huge. They created an opportunity to share pain. This is really important to me. I was a victim of gender-based violence as a teen. To recount tragedies. If you know Celeste's story, like all these women, she should be here. And to take a moment to remember those lost. Rebecca Young, 42, Sebastopol, Victoria. The aim has also been to capture attention. We're not just screaming for no reason. People don't just gather on street corners for nothing. This is a call for change. So women can feel safe at home, in a shopping centre, at work, going for a run, and walking home at night. Australia can do better. We have so many tax-paying citizens, and I think most of us would like if the money went to protecting half of them. And there's a plea for the other half, men, to play their part. It is absolutely stunning to see just how many men are in this audience. This isn't just up to women, it's up to men to change men's behaviour as well. Ashley Rapar, 14 News First.

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