Concluding Series 2 of domestic violence prevention campaign We’re Better Than That, the Eastern Suburbs Domestic Violence Network has today released two videos featuring Neighbours star Benjamin “Benny” Turland.
“It’s very important for young males to speak up against domestic violence,” the 23 year-old actor explains, on the backdrop of Maroubra Skatepark,
“If we get in early then we have a chance to stop the patterns and change the culture of domestic violence.”
The videos, funded by the Central and Eastern Sydney PHN and created in partnership with the Hope Believe Shine Foundation, and Randwick, Waverley, Woollahra and Bayside Councils, promote respect and healthy relationship strategies, and encourage men to be active bystanders when they witness behaviour that contributes to domestic violence.
In addition to clearly explaining consent and calling on young men to be respectful and accountable, Benny reflects on his mental health journey, and challenges rigid masculine roles that limit men’s expression of emotions.
“I think for me, being a man means someone who takes responsibility for their actions, their behaviour and their mental health.”
Co-chair of the Eastern Suburbs Domestic Violence Network Melinda Leves explains, “Considering 1 in 6 women experience abuse before the age of 15, including young men’s voices in the conversation about domestic violence is imperative.”
Benny is the eighth male influencer to join the conversation. The first series of We’re Better Than That featured influencers such as My Kitchen Rules star Colin Fassnidge and Bondi lifeguard Bruce “Hoppo” Hopkins, and gained over 120k views.
The second series launched during Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras with Drag Race Down Under contestant Maxi Shield, and also featured Paralympic swimmer and Order of Australia recipient Matt Levy.
The videos are available to view on the We’re Better Than That YouTube channel (tinyurl.com/2v8ybd39) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/WereBetterThanThatAUS).
In the campaign Benny concludes, “No-one deserves to be treated badly. We’re Better Than That.”
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, help is available. You can call NSW DV Line on 1800 65 64 63 or the Men’s Referral service on 1300 766 491.
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