Victoria Police crime statistics show the average number of domestic violence incident reports across the Warrnambool, Moyne and Corangamite municipal areas has doubled from 2009-10 to the latest available figures from 2013-14.

Domestic violence is the single leading contributor to death, disability and illness for Victorian women aged 15 to 44 and across the country two women are killed each week by their current or former partners.

Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West is the leading women’s health promotion and primary prevention organisation in the region and works to improve the lives of women by influencing government policy at local and state level.

Executive officer Emily Lee-Ack said violence against women was prevalent and serious but it was also preventable.

“We know that we must focus on gender equality and respectful relationships to prevent violence against women,” she said.

“We all have a role to play in changing the attitudes and behaviours that support and allow sexism and discrimination against women. 

“Call out sexism where you see it and support equality in your workplace, school, sporting club and associated organisations.

“Communities that are better for women are better for everyone. 

“We must all work together to create the change that builds the type of community we all want to live in – where women are safe, valued, respected and free from all forms of violence.”

Warrnambool City Council supports White Ribbon Day and chief executive Bruce Anson said the campaign was a great way to take positive action.  

“It's a campaign aimed at engaging men and boys in the issue of violence against women and at Warrnambool City Council we are taking action to make sure our workplace and the community are supported to do all they can to prevent this violence,” he said. 

“We realise that the best action we can take is to raise awareness of the issue in the community, especially on White Ribbon Day, and to give our staff the tools to respond to the attitudes and behaviours which support domestic violence.”

About 700 council staff have participated in the Take A Stand program.