Athletes from across Suncorp Super Netball have united to raise their voices in the fight against domestic violence in Australia.
The numbers make for shocking reading:
- One in three women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, and one in five have experienced sexual violence.
- On average, one woman is killed every nine days by a current or former partner.
- In 2024, 37 women lost their lives to violence at the hands of a current or former intimate partner.
The athletes, which included a number of current and former NSW Swifts, spoke to camera and released the following statement via the Australian Netball Players' Association:
Every Australian deserves to feel safe – at home, at work, and in their community.
But for too many women, that safety is shattered by domestic and family violence.
Today, as women, community members, athletes and role models, we stand together to shine a light on this national crisis.
To hear her voice and commit to being part of the solution.
Domestic violence is a widespread and devastating issue in Australia and the victims of domestic violence are overwhelmingly women.
The statistics in Australia are confronting.
One in four women have experienced violence, emotional abuse, or economic abuse by a cohabiting partner since the age of 15.
One in three women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, and one in five have experienced sexual violence.
On average, one woman is killed every nine days by a current or former partner.
In 2024, 37 women lost their lives to violence at the hands of a current or former intimate partner.
Last year alone, over 4,600 women were hospitalised due to family and domestic violence – an average of 13 women every single day.
Domestic and family violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women and children.
These numbers are not just statistics-they represent our mothers, sisters, teammates, coaches and friends.
The impact of domestic violence ripples through families, communities, and generations.
But there is hope, and there is action.
Sporting communities across Australia are stepping up.
Here, we are proud to use our platform to raise awareness, educate, and foster respect and equality.
Last season, we wore purple armbands at every game to raise awareness for violence against women.
We continue to stand together in solidarity with survivors and we are committed to keeping this conversation going, both on and off the court.
At the West Coast Fever, we’ve partnered with West Australian charity Starick, who are aiming to end family and domestic violence and build safer communities for everyone.
At the Sunshine Coast Lightning, we’ve partnered with the Sunshine Coast Council to show our support for domestic and family violence victims.
As athletes, we know the power of teamwork and leadership.
We are committed to being role models and calling out disrespect.
Supporting those affected. And championing change in our clubs and communities.
We believe that sport can help shape positive attitudes and challenge harmful stereotypes.
Building cultures where violence is never tolerated.
Together, we stand united, on the court and in our communities, to end violence against women.
Enough is enough.
Let’s play our part in making Australia safer for everyone.
Hear her voice.
