Violence against women and their children in Australia is preventable. Together we can choose a future where all women and their children live free from violence, where women are not only safe, but respected, valued and treated as equals in public and private life.

To achieve this, we need social change. We need to change the norms, practices and structures that produce gender inequality and underpin the drivers of violence against women. To achieve equality and safety for all women, it is vital that we also address other forms of social, political and historical discrimination, inequality and disadvantage. This social transformation is an ambitious, long-term goal. It will involve us all working together on prevention projects small and large, in our communities and across a range of different settings, such as schools, sporting clubs and workplaces, and contributing to a national conversation where violence against women is no longer condoned, excused or trivialised, and where equal and respectful relationships become the new norm.

By picking up this handbook, you have joined a community of Australians working to create a future free of violence for all women, regardless of their race, religion, ability, sexuality, geographic location, gender identity, age, class or cultural background.