Council is inviting community members to come together for the 2026 Safe Steps Candlelight Vigil to recognise those in our community whose lives have been impacted by family violence.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Brett Owen encouraged residents to attend the vigil at the Cardinia Cultural Centre to acknowledge the strength and courage of all people who have experienced family violence, as well as those who support victims, survivors, perpetrators and their families.
"Family violence is a common but often silent problem in our community with more than 2000 incidents reported to Police in one year, or 5 incidents reported to police every day, we know that many more instances don't get reported." he said.
"We ask that all people who work, live, learn and play in Cardinia Shire do their part to create an inclusive and supportive community where everybody feels safe, and no more lives are lost to the tragedy of family violence.
"I encourage our community to attend this year's vigil and continue to speak up and challenge outdated attitudes to build a stronger and more connected community where all people are treated with respect and dignity."
The vigil will feature keynote speaker, founder of The RED HEART Movement, Sherele Moody.
Sherele is Australia's leading femicide and child death researcher, an award-winning journalist, a violence survivor and activist dedicated to ending violence against women and children.
She is also the founder and operator of The RED HEART Movement, the Australian Femicide Watch and all the associated projects, including the Australian Femicide and Child Death Map and the Memorial to Women and Children Lost to Violence.
The 2026 Safe Steps Candlelight Vigil will take place on National Family Violence Remembrance Day, coinciding with Domestic Violence Prevention Month, and is being held by Council in partnership with the Together We Can Partnership.
Cardinia Shire Council works with the Together We Can Partnership, made up of sector experts, service providers and community leaders to identify and deliver actions to reduce family violence.
Event details
Wednesday 6 May, 6 - 7pm
Cardinia Cultural Centre, 40 Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham
Candles will be provided to attendees.
If you are experiencing family violence, contact The Orange Door at: www.orangedoor.vic.gov.au/support-near-you
If you're in immediate danger, call 000 – or call the police on 131 444 if you don't want sirens.
