Centre for Non-Violence chief executive Margaret Augerinos said the common denominator was gender equality.

"Where gender inequality exists you often have violence against women and children," she said.

"So not only is it important to prevent violence but, in order to prevent it, we also need to work on a whole range of levels as a community to change attitudes but also work towards greater equality."

Australian Women Against Violence Alliance chairwoman Julie Oberin said ending violence was everyone's responsibility.

"Violence against women and girls is one of the most pervasive violations of human rights in the world today," Ms Oberin said.

She said violence was prevalent but could be prevented.

"Australia has an exciting opportunity through the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children ... to drive the requisite social change needed to prevent violence ... ," she said.