Attorney-General Calls for Men to Prevent 'Crisis of Male Violence' in Australia

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has called for men in Australia to "step up" and prevent what he termed a "crisis of male violence" against women, as the number of women killed in violent incidents reaches 24 this year. Dreyfus made the remarks in response to two recent stabbing incidents in Sydney and the broader issue of violence against women perpetrated by men.

The call to action comes after a stabbing rampage at Sydney's Bondi Junction shopping center last weekend that claimed the lives of five women and one man. The attack, carried out by 40-year-old Joel Cauchi, left more than a dozen others injured, including a nine-month-old baby. Cauchi, who was known to police and had a history of mental health issues, was fatally shot by police at the scene.

In a separate incident, a stabbing at a church in Wakeley, Western Sydney, was declared a terrorism incident, triggering a riot. Police commissioners have called out social media giants for the spread of graphic and misleading posts related to the attacks, urging them to remove such content immediately.

Why this matters: The recent incidents highlight the urgent need to address the growing crisis of male violence against women in Australia. With 24 women killed in violent incidents so far this year, the issue has far-reaching implications for society, requiring a collaborative effort from governments, organizations, and communities to prevent further tragedies and ensure the safety of women.

Dreyfus emphasized that violence against women is never acceptable and that there is a crisis of male violence in Australia that must be addressed. He stated, "Violence against women is overwhelmingly perpetrated by men. It's men who need to step up and stop this." The Attorney-General urged men to educate themselves, talk to their sons, colleagues, and friends, and work together to find a solution.

Chief Justice William Alstergren of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia also hosted a National Violence Symposium, highlighting the prevalence of family violence and the need for collaborative work to address the issue. Dreyfus acknowledged that while progress has been made, more work needs to be done to protect women and ensure their safety.

Experts say the causes of this violence are complex, with factors such as the offshoring of manufacturing, rising house prices, and a growing gender divide triggered by alienation and resentment contributing to the issue. Young men feel stuck, angry, and bewildered, with some expressing their anger through hostility and violence towards women.

In the wake of the recent attacks, the Australian government has implemented measures to address the crisis, including increased police presence, mental health support services for affected communities, and a candlelight vigil to honor the victims. Dreyfus emphasized that governments, organizations, frontline services, law enforcement, academic institutions, the judiciary, families, and the community need to work together to change the situation and end the scourge of male violence against women in Australia.

Key Takeaways

• AG Dreyfus calls on men to stop "crisis of male violence" against women in Australia.
• Recent incidents include a stabbing rampage in Sydney that killed 5 women and 1 man.
• Experts cite factors like offshoring, rising prices, and gender divide fueling male violence.
• Government implements measures like increased police, mental health support, and vigils.
• Collaborative effort needed from all sectors to address and end male violence against women.