We need to break down those barriers, so hopefully it won’t be a norm in the future.
- Lisa O’Reilly, Our Watch
NEW findings from peak prevention organisation Our Watch have found more than a quarter of young people hold attitudes that put them at risk of perpetrating or tolerating violence against women.
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Troubling statistics like this have prompted the group, which is pushing for an end to violence against women and their children, to launch a new campaign with the message: ‘You can’t undo violence’.
The group’s research revealed many young people hold ‘’disturbing’’ gender attitudes that support violence against women, as a third of people aged 12 to 24 do not think exerting control over someone is a form of violence.
One in four thought it was ‘’pretty normal’’ for a guy to pressure a girl into sex and a quarter did not think it was serious if a ‘’normally gentle’’ guy slapped his girlfriend when he was drunk during an argument.
Our Watch ambassador and former AFL star Luke Ablett said it was crucial to redefine masculinity and call out sexist behaviour or jokes.
Lisa O’Reilly, a member of Our Watch's digital youth committee, said social stereotypes about girls and boys could foster inequality in relationships.
The 19-year-old said couples needed to respect each other and communicate about their relationships.
‘’We need to break down those barriers, so hopefully it won’t be a norm in the future,’’ Ms O’Reilly said.
‘’I hope ... as people start to realise and talk about how this isn't OK, we will stop seeing so much acceptance and turning a blind eye to violence against women.’’
The campaign uses compelling images to deliver the message that violent and controlling behaviour is something that lives with people forever - like a tattoo it leaves an indelible mark.
The campaign comes as the federal government committed $100 million to combating violence against women. It also follows the release of VicHealth figures showing one in five young Australians believed women were partially responsible for sexual assault.
Fairfax Media has combined with Our Watch to End the Cycle of violence against women. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or sexual assault, phone 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.