Despite increased conversation and some outstanding work from those working in violence prevention fields, men's violence towards women and girls continues at alarming rates.

Together, Australian Community Media (a division of Fairfax Media) and Our Watch have united to highlight the importance of working across boundaries and borders to create awareness about the issue.

This is not a women's issue, it is a whole of society issue that needs all levels of government to take seriously.

No section of the community is immune to this gender violence - it affects all demographics and cultures.

It affects women and girls in many ways, not always physically  – but always about power and control.

To say we have the power to change this sounds simplistic, but the reality is family violence is preventable. 

And it starts with every one of us taking a stand against behaviours that contribute to gender based violence.

So today, rather than dismiss the issue as something that doesn't happen in your world, acknowledge that it does - and spend a few moments on the End the Cycle link at www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au learning about why.

Or, visit Ourwatch.com.au and familiarise yourself with the national campaign, You Can’t Undo Violence.

The organisation’s research found one in four young people aged 12 to 24 hold attitudes that put them at risk of perpetrating, excusing or tolerating violence against women. 

They are comfortable with coercive and disrespectful behaviours, are more likely to justify violence, and believe that being masculine means exerting power and control over their partners. 

Educating our young people about equality and respectful relationships is critical.

Please take the time to do some reading and importantly, listening – and think about what you do that supports attitudes that lead to violence against women and children. And how can you change that?

Nicole Ferrie, editor

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, phone 000