Representatives from local councils, sports clubs and associations, community organisations and government gathered at Kardinia Park last week for the launch of three initiatives aimed at building safe and inclusive sporting communities.
As part of Family Violence Prevention Month, the Respect in Action – Building Safe and Inclusive Sport event showcased Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Safe and Inclusive Sport guide, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust’s Respect at Our Stadium action plan and The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre’s (The SAFV Centre) Respect Starts Here video resources.
Hosted by SportsGrad founder and sexual assault survivor Reuben Williams, the event welcomed Parliamentary Secretary for Men’s Behaviour Change Tim Richardson.
Mr Richardson said sport had “the power to shape attitudes and influence change”.
“By fostering safe and inclusive environments, we can challenge harmful behaviours and build a culture of respect—on and off the field,” he said.
“These initiatives are a vital step in preventing gender-based violence and promoting equality in every club and community.”
Based in Geelong, The SAFV Centre is not-for-profit organisation offering sexual assault and family violence services throughout Barwon, the Wimmera and the South West.
The SAFV Centre’s Respect Starts Here program is designed to assist sporting clubs and associations to improve gender equality and prevent and respond better to gendered violence.
SAFV Centre chief executive Kerriann Campbell-Jones said “gender equality in sport matters”.
“Our Respect Starts Here program is dedicated to taking action to promote respect and equality, and challenge disrespectful attitudes and behaviours in sporting clubs,” Ms Campbell-Jones said.
“Together, we’re empowering clubs to foster inclusive and supportive environments where all members can thrive, both on and off the field.
“These new digital resources will support them as they implement the Respect Starts Here program within their clubs.”
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust’s Respect at Our Stadium action plan aims to address behaviours and attitudes that drive gender-based violence that can be seen at sports stadiums.
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive Gerard Griffin said he looked forward to “re-imagining the role of the venue in preventing gender-based violence”.
“We will collaborate with our Victorian Government partners and primary-prevention agencies to evolve the offering but most importantly, we will bring our venue hirers and the fans – our community – on the journey with us,” he said.
