Family violence is an endemic problem in Victoria, with one in three women experiencing violence from a partner, according to the Domestic Violence Resources Centre Victoria (DVRCV).
DVRCV also states that one woman is killed each week as a result of family violence.
These horrific statistics have led to public campaigns, championed by leaders such as Rosie Batty, who used her personal experience to lead the movement against domestic violence.
A Royal Commission was established on the 22nd of February 2015 to further investigate family violence.
These statistics have also led to a group of Hobsons Bay City Shire students to draft a Bill for the YMCA Youth Press Gallery, which aims to try and combat family violence.
The Bill, called the ‘Compulsory Education of Family Violence in Schools’ aims to introduce an education program for students in years five to ten that reduces the stigma of family violence and promotes gender equality.
“Domestic violence is an issue that is rarely spoken about in schools across Victoria,” said the Hobsons Bay City Council team.
“We believe that covering the necessary education from years five to ten we will be setting young people up for a safe and informed future.”
The student’s Bill also tackles educating children on domestic violence.
DVRCV has recorded that children are present in one out of every three family violence cases reported to police.
“Young people and children who live with domestic violence can show some of the same symptoms as children who are being abused directly,” reported the Domestic Violence & Incest Resource Centre Victoria.
“The effects include anxiety, social withdrawal, low self-esteem, and substance abuse.”
“We hope the curriculum will allow students to, first and foremost, comprehend exactly what domestic violence is, and that it can exist in both mental and physical forms,” said the Hobsons Bay City Council team.
The team also wants the stream of domestic violence education to include educating students and teachers on what resources they can utilise for family violence support.
The team also wants gender equality to be addressed, with women far more likely to experience domestic violence then men.
“Overall, our Bill is taking small steps in eradicating the issue of family violence by illuminating the issue on a societal level and creating discussion around the negative impacts that it causes,” said the Hobsons Bay City Council team.
If the Hobsons Bay City Council’s Bill passes through YMCA’s Youth Parliament, then it will be handed to the relevant cabinet minister for consideration.
More than 25 pieces of State Legislation have originated from the Youth Parliament.
Alice Rennison is a second year Bachelor of Journalism student at La Trobe University. You can follow her on Twitter: @AliceRenni
