Property professionals stand up against family violence this finals season

While a celebratory season for many, the AFL final season sees a spike in family violence around the country.

You Matter, a family violence charity organisation in Melbourne, recently held its "Stand Up in September" event to help combat family violence.

The event is a result of numerous discussions that have taken place over the past months with men directly connected to the You Matter community. 

The concept of a ‘Pie Night’ in the lead up to AFL football finals, where men can gather socially, sparked the idea for the event, with a focus on engaging men in the conversation about how to challenge masculine stereotypes, attitudes and behaviours that contribute to the use of violence against women, and how men can become part of the solution.

You Matter compiled their very own ‘Top 8’: eight men from a range of industries who have made a pledge to become part of the solution to family violence, including Nicholas Brooks from Marshall White and Nim Rotenberg from Cobild Lux.

Despite Aussies’ passion for the footy, statistics show that family violence incidents tragically spike during the footy finals period. You Matter is passionate about addressing this issue by bringing the conversation about family violence into a setting where men traditionally gather to enjoy the game – the pub. 

The event created a safe space for attendees to discuss family violence, so men feel equipped to continue this conversation in their daily lives.

The evening featured a variety of live music and fundraising activities, including a silent auction and raffle, with all proceeds going directly to support the initiatives of You Matter. 

In addition to these activities, attendees heard from football legend, Phil Cleary, who shared his personal insights on the impact of family violence and the importance of community involvement.

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