Politicians, industry and business leaders as well as the National Rugby League came together in Canberra at Parliament House on the eve of White Ribbon Day to launch the White Ribbon Workplace Program.
Minister for Defence and Deputy Leader of the House, Stephen Smith, opened the morning tea event by emphasising the importance of this issue, and the role men have to play in creating change in behaviours and attitudes. Leader of the Opposition, Tony Abbott, then spoke of his personal commitment to the cause, and how he aims to live the Oath in his day-to-day life.
A “Swear and Wear” ceremony followed with White Ribbon Ambassadors David Gallop, Trent Barrett and Andrew Ryan leading the Oath and wearing the white ribbon. The Hon. Kate Ellis, Minister for Employment Participation, Minister for Status of Women and Minister for Child Care, introduced the Workplace Program and spoke of her support for the White Ribbon Foundation and for the work of the sector in confronting this issue in Australian communities. The Minister also announced a $250,000 grant to the NRL as part of a three-year national plan to help end violence against women and children, which CEO David Gallop accepted.
The 60 guests in attendance were then introduced to individuals representing key industries and businesses engaged in the White Ribbon Workplace Program. They spoke in detail about the Workplace Accreditation Program and Workplace Ambassadors Program: Glenn Withers, Universities Australia , Bernard McKitrick, GM Corporate Social Responsibility, Queensland Rail , Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie (Retired), Kerrie Pryke, City of Sydney (White Ribbon Champion).
To find out more on the White Ribbon Workplace Program, click here or email admin@whiteribbon.org.au.
