One of the biggest events on the sporting calendar is held this weekend, the Australian Football League (AFL) Grand Final.
The final is an exciting day for many football fans and brings people together to celebrate, but for some women and children, it can lead to anxiety across the long weekend as incidents of family violence increase.
According to Victoria Police, there is a 20 per cent increase in family violence after the game, which correlates with a spike in violence around major sporting events. Statistics show that violence increases roughly the same whether a favoured team wins or loses.
Family violence is a complex issue resulting from an imbalance of power between people. Factors such as rigid gender stereotypes, gender inequality and other forms of discrimination (e.g., racism and ageism) are drivers of family violence. During finals, there may also be contributing factors such as heightened emotions, gambling, and drug and alcohol consumption. A mix of these factors can exacerbate the risk and severity of incidents of family violence occurring.
If you’re worried about someone
Family violence is never okay. The effects of family violence and harassment on our society are wide-reaching and it is important to remember that the individuals behind the statistics are real people.
Heading into this weekend, we all have a role to play in preventing incidents of family violence and harassment.
Respect Victoria encourages all community members to be active bystanders. This doesn’t mean you need to intervene directly. Being an active bystander includes learning to tune into the signs when someone is in danger, interpreting the problem and knowing what to do. You should never place yourself in a position where you feel unsafe.
If you witness family violence at work, or if there is an imminent or immediate risk of harm, exhibited by patients or visitors, follow procedure and call a Code Grey or Black. At no point should you put yourself in danger; support is available. Once it is safe to do so, follow the appropriate post-incident procedure and guidance on Prompt.
Support for victims of family violence
Monash Health provides a safe space and support for employees impacted by family violence. This includes:
- confidential counselling through the Employee Assistance Program (1300 338 465)
- family violence leave
- flexible work options
Your manager or supervisor is also available to support you and discuss your options, including family violence leave, or you can contact your People and Culture Business Partner via the advice line on (03) 9265 2724.
A range of external service providers is also able to support employees who are experiencing family violence.
- 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) – the national sexual assault and family violence counselling service, available online and on the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre (1800 015 188) – crisis service providing support for women and children, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) – a private and confidential phone and online counselling service available for children and young people aged five to 25, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- No to Violence (1300 766 491) – national referral service working with men to end family violence, available in Victoria weekdays 8am – 9pm, weekends 9am – 5pm.
- MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78) – telephone and online counselling service specialising in family and relationship concerns, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Approved by: Katrina Nankervis