MEN assaulted at least 340 women in Dubbo last year and that is an awful social problem that needs constant vigilance, containment and, ideally, elimination.
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And those 340 violent attacks are the ones that were reported.
In many cases victims don't involve police because of fear of revenge, embarrassment or shame.
That is why activities like White Ribbon Day, which highlight domestic violence and are also aimed at supporting victims and educating men about the problem, are so important.
All the more so in Dubbo which has a domestic violence rate twice the NSW average. The city ranks ninth worst in the state for the crime.
The victims are often trapped in horrific life situations. Besides the physical hurt there is a massive emotional cost to them, children and other family members. The psychological damage can be life-long.
It is a problem that has to be tackled by the wider community.
It is ironic that Dubbo was holding a White Ribbon Day event on the eve of the closure of Inspiration House Services, which had helped women fleeing domestic violence for 27 years.
Inspiration House and other women's support services were changed to new providers after a NSW government tender process.
It is vital that the new system provides the highest possible standards of support for women dealing with domestic violence.
The women deserve nothing less and should get much more.