Joint News Release
Attorney-General
The Hon Robert McClelland MP
Minister for Housing, Minister for the Status of Women
The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP
25 July 2008
ATTORNEYS JOIN FIGHT TO REDUCE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
The Rudd Government today praised all Australian Attorneys-General after they agreed to become White Ribbon Ambassadors.
“This is an important act by the nation’s first law officers. It says with a clear, unequivocal voice that violence against women in any form is wrong and should be condemned,” said Mr McClelland.
The Attorneys join many other men from around Australia, including the Prime Minister, in becoming White Ribbon Ambassadors.
Ambassadors are vocal advocates of positive, non-violent relationships with women and help build a strong culture in Australia that there is 'no excuse' for violent behaviour
The announcement comes on the eve of the 25th anniversary of Australia’s ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).
Minister for the Status of Women Tanya Plibersek says, “Today’s commitment is evidence that all Australian Governments are determined to strengthen gender equality and reduce violence against women in Australia.”
During the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General meeting, Mr McClelland also updated his State and Territory colleagues on the progress of the National Council to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.
The eleven-member National Council is charged with the development of a National Plan to reduce the incidence and impact of domestic and family violence and sexual assault on women and their children, including the possibility of harmonising domestic violence laws.
“The Rudd Government is committed to making a real difference to the lives of Australian women, including improving Australia’s action on international human rights,” Mr McClelland said.
“I welcome the States and Territories clear demonstration that they share this important commitment.”
The Rudd Government has provided the White Ribbon Campaign $1 million in funding over the next four years to help make violence against women a thing of the past.
Media Contact:
Glen Paul, Mr McClelland’s Office, 0417 066 497
Darrin Barnett, Ms Plibersek’s Office, 0428 119 703
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