From Tuesday 25 November until Wednesday 10 December, the West Gippsland Arts Centre will light up orange in support of the 16 Days of Activism campaign to help prevent and eliminate gender-based violence.
The campaign was started by activists at the inauguration of the Women's Global Leadership Institute in 1991 and is used around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls - which statistics show affects one in three women.
The start and end date of the campaign mark International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 25) and International Human Rights Day (December 10).
The colour orange is used throughout this campaign as a symbol of hope for a brighter future for all.
Locally, statistics continue to show that gender-based violence is prevalent within our community. Over the last year, Baw Baw Shire recorded 1,280 family violence callouts to police and ranks 28th in family violence rates out of Victoria's 79 local government areas.
Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Councillor Kate Wilson said stamping out gender-based violence was everyone's responsibility.
"Baw Baw Shire Council is proud to join a global campaign that reminds us of our shared responsibility to create safe, equal, and respectful communities for all. Throughout these 16 days we hope to send a clear message that violence is never acceptable and will not be tolerated in Baw Baw Shire and beyond", said Cr Wilson.
"While there is a lot of work to be done across Gippsland to reverse the startling statistics, we are committed to working with our local partners and Victoria Police towards a safer community where everyone can live free from fear and violence."
This year, Baw Baw Shire Council is partnering with Gippsland Women's Health, Lifeline Gippsland and Myli Libraries to spread awareness, information and resources throughout the campaign period.
How to get involved
On the opening day of the campaign, everyone is invited to attend a free, powerful and community-focused education session presented by Lifeline Gippsland designed to build awareness, foster understanding and equip individuals with practical strategies to prevent and respond to family violence.
When: 1pm - 3pm on Tuesday 25 November 2025
Where: Warragul Library
Cost: Free, bookings essential via the Eventbrite link here
Food and light refreshments will be provided.
This session is suitable for anyone committed to creating safer, more respectful relationships and communities.
