From awareness to accountability - 2021 marks the 30th anniversary of the Global 16 Days Campaign against gendered violence.

The movement runs annually from 25 November to 10 December and calls for action against one of the world's most persistent violations of human rights - violence against women.

In support of women who have experienced domestic violence, the City of Charles Sturt is participating in a number of events and projects including the Clothesline Project, which showcases our community's unique responses to family violence in several locations across our City.

We were also proud to launch the second 'Ripples' public art memorial - 'Place of Courage' in partnership with the Spirit of Woman to pay tribute to victims and survivors of domestic violence.

The site at Cheltenham Reserve Playground is intended to provide a safe space for the community to reflect, grieve, connect, and heal.

The Founder of the Place of Courage is 90-year-old Helen Oxenham OAM who was driving force behind the first women’s shelter in Christie’s Beach in 1977.

“I have suffered by whole life from the scars of domestic violence. I believe that The Place of Courage will be a healing space that gives solace to sufferers. I want to bring peace to my sisters – peace that I have never found," she said.

Mayor Angela Evans reflected on the importance of the site at our launch event.

“We are proud that this Place of Courage can be found in the heart of Charles Sturt to bravely share stories and create change. We must stand together to eliminate domestic violence, it is simply not acceptable," she shared.