16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
Access Health and Community is proud to support this year’s 16 Days of Activism campaign from 25 November to 10 December. The 16 Days of Activism is a global movement that raises awareness and inspires action to end gender-based violence and inequality.
This important campaign encourages everyone to call out harmful gender stereotypes and helps build a safer, more equal society for all.
In Australia, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 14 men experience violence from an intimate partner, from the age of 15.
These statistics remind us why this work matters. Too often, violence begins with disrespect.
United We Grow – Unite Trees
Like growing a tree, meaningful change takes time, trust and the right environment.
Together, we can nurture meaningful conversations about respect amongst friends, families and communities – creating safe, supportive spaces where everyone can thrive.
How to add your message to a Unite Tree
Visit our Unite Trees from 20 November and attach a paper leaf sharing what respect, unity or kindness means to you.
Blank leaves, and leaves with message suggestions, will be available alongside the trees.
For our younger community members, these reflections can be in the form of a picture.
If you can’t visit a tree in person but still want to participate, you can share your thoughts via this link
We’ll write it on a leaf, then attach it to a Unite Tree for you.
Find a Unite Tree near you
The Unite Trees, crafted in partnership with Mt Evelyn Men’s Shed, will be on display from 20 November – 15 December 2025, at the following locations:
- The Belgrave Hub – 1616/1624 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave
- Lilydale Library – Building L5 Box Hill Institute Lilydale Lakeside Campus Jarlo Drive, Lilydale
- Mt Evelyn Community House – 50 Wray Cres, Mount Evelyn
Help these beautiful trees blossom into interactive displays of community storytelling and connection. United, we are stronger!
For more information, please email healthpromotion@accesshc.org.au or contact Megan McInerney on (03) 9810 3000.
United We Grow is proudly supported by a Yarra Ranges Council Grant
Other 16 Days of Activism events happening in the community:
- Walk Against Family Violence on Friday 28 November 10am. Birrarung Marr (Upper Terrace) Melbourne.
- Walk Against Gendered Violence on Thursday 27 November 10:30am – 1pm at Lilydale Lake (Community Centre).
- Respect Is: Supporting young people to build healthy relationships A free online webinar for parents and carers of young people 8 – 14 on Wednesday 26 November 7:30pm – 9pm.
- Beyond Sparkles and Superheros Storytime Featuring books that challenge gender stereotypes and celebrate equality and individuality. Monday 24 November. Mooroolbark Library. All ages welcome.
- Tomorrow Man: A night with the blokes A free workshop for men and men-identifying people 18+. Thursday 4 December 6:30 – 8:30pm at Hawthorn Library.
- Money Morning Tea: Financial wellbeing for women Thursday 4 December 10am at Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre.
- Women Making Waves: Free Edition Saturday 30 November and Saturday 7 December. 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Collingwood Leisure Centre.
- AIDS Memorial Garden walking tour, reflections and BBQ 5:30pm Friday 29 November at Fairfield AIDS Memorial Garden.
You can also visit the Safe and Equal webpage for a host of other Statewide events and tips to help you get involved in the campaign.
Let’s start a conversation
1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service.
Call 1800 737 732
Text 0458 737 732
you can also chat online, or video call via 1800respect.org.au
For more information on support services, please click here.
Make a booking
It's quick and easy to book online or you can call our friendly intake team on
03 9810 3000. We are here to help.