With the Far West and Orana among the top five regions with the highest rates of domestic violence incidents in the state, it’s clear not enough is being done. 

The Orana region has long had high statistics when it comes to domestic violence – and they are only the reported cases, not the ones that aren’t being reported and we aren’t hearing about. 

A new measure to provide 10 days paid domestic violence leave to all NSW public sector employees in the state has made it clear how big of an issue it is. Women and men who are victims of domestic violence now have this extra bit of security if they work for a government department. 

It’s sad that we live in a world where these 10 days are necessary, and that all workplaces are being called upon to make sure they have similar leave allowances be it for men or women who are victims. 

It’s a basic human right that we should be able to live free from violence and everyone should have the same rights to take some time off to attend court, to negotiate new housing and schooling, if the need arises without also fearing they may lose their job and their income in the process. 

In another measure also announced recently, women experiencing family and domestic violence will also be able to have access to interest free loans to assist them in relocation, household items, rental bonds and debt consolidation. 

It’s another measure that is unfortunately needed in the society we live in. 

With White Ribbon Day held annually each year, it’s a time to stop and think about how our community is impacted by domestic violence and what we as both individuals and organisations can do to combat it. 

This weekend’s White Ribbon Family Fun Day in Victoria Park will aim to start a conversation around domestic violence for families impacted. 

To start the conversation that needs to be had, and to assist in getting men and women out of these violent situations and back on their feet. It’s a way to highlight the domestic violence services in Dubbo, while also encouraging people to bring domestic violence out from behind closed doors. 

With domestic violence rates in Dubbo twice as high as the NSW average according to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, it’s a conversation that needs to be had.