More than 20 grassroots organisations across New South Wales have received funding through a new $100,000 grant program to support efforts to prevent domestic and family violence during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an international campaign that runs from 25 November to 10 December each year. This year, the Minns Labor Government is empowering local organisations to deliver community-based activities to address the primary prevention of domestic, family and sexual violence.
The NSW Government is taking a whole-of-community approach to stopping violence before it starts, by changing attitudes and behaviours that tolerate abuse in places where people live, study, work, play and socialise.
Funded activities include digital campaigns, training, community forums and marches, outreach, art and storytelling projects, and events that promote positive masculinity and challenge gender biases.
Recipients range from Aboriginal organisations, neighbourhood centres, outreach services, as well as women and family centres.
Each of the selected projects were carefully assessed according to grant guidelines and received between $2,500 and $5,000 to deliver local, community-led initiatives.
The grants support the NSW Government's 'Pathways to Prevention: NSW Strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence 2024-2028', which outlines a long-term, whole-of-community approach to addressing the drivers of gender based violence.
This is part of the government's wider efforts to bring down the rates of domestic and family violence in the state, which includes boosting support services for victim-survivors, strengthening protections through bail reform, holding perpetrators to account and earlier intervention.
For a full list of successful recipients and more information about the campaign, visit16 Days of activism 2025.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:
"Domestic and family violence is unacceptable and we are working with local communities to end violence in our state.
"Local organisations know what works in their communities and we are empowering them to take meaningful local action to stop violence before it starts. These projects reflect our community's commitment to challenge violent behaviours and change the story for many women and families to one where violence does not exist.
"Primary prevention is about more than just raising awareness. It's about reframing the culture that enables violence and making respectful healthy relationships the standard across schools, families and communities."
Erin Ellery DFV Coordinator at Lithgow Community Projects and co-chair of Lithgow cares said:
"The grant enables us to deliver The Flourish Journey information sessions to young women across all three high schools in Lithgow. By providing a safe and engaging space for young women to explore self-worth, healthy relationships, and personal agency, we will reinforce positive behaviours and social norms that reject violence."
