New ads are sinking in, but these domestic violence stats remain stark

The latest campaign aimed at breaking the cycle of violence against women and children appears to be sinking in.

New research shows the Stop It At The Start advertisement has led to nearly two-thirds of adults changing some of their deeply held attitudes and becoming more aware of their behaviour in front of young people.

Seventy-two per cent of people who saw the campaign understood and accepted their role in showing young people how to act respectfully.

Click PLAY to watch one of the ads

But the rates of domestic violence remain steady and troubling, with eight women per day hospitalised because of an attack at the hands on men.

LATEST STATS @ RESPECT.GOV.AU

• 1 in 3 women has been a victim of physical or sexual violence, since the age of 15, by someone known to them (2016 Personal Safety Survey, ABS)
• Almost 1 in 4 women have been emotionally abused by a partner since the age of 15 (2016 Personal Safety Survey, ABS)
• 1 woman dies almost every week at the hands of a current or former partner (2015 Australian Institute of Criminology report)

Federal Families and Social Services Minister Paul Fletcher told Ross and John that, in many cases, adults don’t appreciate what example they are setting.

“We can say things that inadvertently show a lack of respect for women,” he said.

“What we want to do is see if we can change that so that we’re all modeling and articulating respect for women, and particularly helping young people develop those attitudes.”

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