In May, Embolden was proud to co-host the Ending Coercive Control, Family & Domestic Violence Conference in Adelaide, in partnership with The Hatchery. Held on Kaurna Country on the 7th and 8th of May, the conference brought together practitioners, policymakers, advocates and people with lived experience for two days of rich discussion and shared learning.
Across the two days, sessions explored coercive control, systems abuse, trauma-informed responses and child-centred practice. A strong focus was placed on Aboriginal-led approaches to family violence, with powerful invitations from speakers to consider how these models can inform practice across all communities. Embolden General Manager Mary Leaker shared insights from the UK’s experience with criminalising coercive control, offering timely reflections for Australian states and territories currently considering and implementing legislative reform.
Embolden hosted its annual candlelight vigil at Government House for Domestic and Family Violence Remembrance Day on the 7th of May. This moving ceremony honoured lives lost to violence and recommitted us all to the work of prevention. Lizzy Farrier shared a heartfelt tribute to her younger sister Christine, who was tragically murdered in 2011 at just 16 years old. Lizzy’s words reminded us why this work is so important, and why we must continue to advocate for change.
The conference and vigil also provided a welcome opportunity to connect in person with many of our valued Embolden members, strengthening the sense of community and shared purpose that sustains our sector in its work.
Earlier in the month, Embolden was honoured to join the Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide for the unveiling of a Purple Bench in Mary MacKillop Plaza. This striking public tribute raises awareness of domestic and family violence, honours victim-survivors, and helps to connect the public with key services.