16 Days of Activism

From 25 November to 10 December, Wangaratta will proudly take part in the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, a global campaign that calls for the elimination of gender-based violence.

Through local events, awareness campaigns, online resources and community conversations, we’re working together to challenge harmful attitudes, support victim survivors, and promote equality.

Everyone has a role to play. Whether it’s attending an event, sharing a message, or simply starting a conversation, your actions matter. Check out the calendar of events below for events and activities happening in the North East region and opportunities to get involved online.

Upcoming Events

Walk Against Family Violence 2026

Join the Walk Against Family Violence on Friday 20 November and create Victorian communities where everyone is safe, equal and respected.

Youth 3Rs - Recognise, Respond, Refer

Become confident in responding to young people experiencing family violence. This online training will help you RECOGNISE the signs of family violence, RESPOND to young people experiencing family violence, and REFER young people to the right support.

Walk Against Violence and Community Vigil (Wodonga)

Stand up, Speak Out. Join in the peaceful walk along High Street, hear from guest speakers, art installations, education and light refreshments.
Following the walk, a Vigil will take place, giving time to pause, reflect and remember.

STAND together

Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported, and creating that kind of community takes all of us. STAND is an interactive community workshop designed to build confidence, connection, and practical skills to help prevent harm before it escalates.

Active Bystander to Violence Workshop

A free Active Bystander to Violence Workshop will provide practical skills to help you recognise harmful attitudes and behaviours, respond safely and confidently when you see or hear something that is not okay, have conversations that can help create change, contribute to a culture of respect in our community

Level Up Libraries

Level Up Libraries: Practical strategies for gender equity in community spaces
Everyone loves the library- and the library is a place for everyone!
Join the team at FVREE for a lunch and learn webinar where we talk all things libraries, community spaces, gender equity and respectful relationships.

Council's 2025 Acknowledgement

To commence the 16 Days of Activism, Mayor Irene Grant opened the November 2025 Council meeting with a Council Acknowledgement held on 25 November - International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

The acknowledgment outlined how family violence impacts the Rural City of Wangaratta, in 2024 there were 647 reported family violence incidents, an increase of 2.5% from the previous year. Of utmost concern, during 2023 – 2024, children were present as victims or witnesses in almost half of all family violence incidents within our shire.

Our region is supported by dedicated specialist services including organisations such as The Orange Door, The Centre Against Violence, VACCA, Upper Murray Family Care and Victoria Police, whose workers respond tirelessly to support those impacted by violence.

Read the full statement here.