22nd December, 2025.
As the Member for Wollondilly, I recognize the powerful Say No2DV Breakfast 2025, where our Wollondilly, Camden, and Macarthur communities united against domestic and family violence. This year's theme, "Turning Pain Into Power," highlighted survivors' strength, prevention, support, and accountability. A moving Acknowledgement to Country by Mindy Taylor set the tone, followed by Kristy Drower's courageous speech sharing her story of recovery, inspiring hope. Artist Sarah Rowan's speed painting and motivational words amazed all. BOCSAR statistics underscore the urgency: In Camden LGA, DV assaults rose 5.8% annually over five years to June 2025; intimidation, stalking, and harassment increased 3.2% over 10 years, with ADVO breaches up 6.3%. In Wollondilly, intimidation incidents grew 2.5% over 10 years, ADVO breaches 7.6%. Weekly, people seek help, affecting adults and children—numbers climbing alarmingly. We must tackle root causes, listen to survivors, shift attitudes, create safety pathways, and strengthen laws for perpetrator accountability. Heartfelt thanks to the SayNo2DV Camden/Wollondilly Committee, especially Tanya Whitehouse of Macarthur Women's DV Court Advocacy Service, NSW Police, WDVCAS, and community leaders for organizing. Grateful to Minister Jodie Harrison MP, councillors, mayors, and council executives for attending. Together, we say NO to DV.
