From the age of 15, one in four women experience violence by a current or previous partner and one in five women are sexually assaulted or threatened. 

Domestic Violence is not just physical violence. It can be psychological, emotional, financial, social or sexual abuse. It involves intimidating and controlling behaviour. It often occurs in intimate partner relationships but also extends to family based relationships, such as the abuse of elders. 

Domestic Violence is an issue that affects every community. 

Whatever its form, the realities of domestic violence are real. 

Muslim Women Australia and National Zakat Foundation sincerely believe that individually and collectively, we can increase awareness of and work to end Domestic Violence. Every person can positively influence change by fostering an environment of respect, amongst their peers, in their homes, in communities, in workplaces, in organisations and in policy.

Every action or inaction is a response to someone in need, that is reaching out. We can all be a place of safety and comfort. We all have the ability to make a difference. 

Domestic and family violence is real and together, we can work towards making the changes we need to end it. We will continue to work together to provide support to all parts of the family, including men, women and children, in addressing financial hardship, domestic violence and homelessness in an inclusive way.

Yours Sincerely,

Maha Krayem Abdo OAM, CEO, Muslim Women Australia 

Abu Muneer Ismail Davids, CEO, National Zakat Foundation