Sydney, Australia – Thousands of Australians took to the streets in cities like Sydney and Adelaide on Saturday, demanding an end to violence against women. The demonstrations followed a tragic stabbing incident at a Sydney mall that claimed the lives of six people, including five women. Additionally, popular Australian actor Orpheus Pledger was arrested after a three-day manhunt on charges of assaulting a woman.
Protesters in Australian cities displayed signs with powerful messages such as “Respect” and “Stop Violence Against Women.” Around 3,000 people gathered in Sydney at the parliament building, calling for stricter laws to punish those who commit acts of violence against women. The rallies, attended by both men and women of all ages, aimed to shed light on the urgent need to address gender-based violence in the country.
Greens Party Senator Sarah Hanson-Young emphasized the need for a “national emergency response” to combat violence against women in Australia. The advocacy organization “What Were You Wearing” called for three days of demonstrations, highlighting the alarming statistic that 29 women had already been killed by violent men in 2024.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his support for the rallies, pledging to participate in the marches to show solidarity. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that a woman has been killed every four days this year due to gender-based violence. Albanese’s backing of the protests reflects a growing national conversation on the issue of violence against women and the need for meaningful action.
In previous years, Australians have mobilized against sexual violence and gender inequality in numerous cities and towns. In 2021, marches were held in over 40 locations amid rape scandals involving male officials in public office. The Women’s March 4 Justice protest rally organizers declined a closed-door meeting with Prime Minister Scott Morrison, underscoring the growing demand for accountability and systemic change to address gender-based violence.