Rugby League advocates against domestic violence

The Australian National Rugby League and the Fiji National Rugby League today have launched the Male Advocates Initiative aimed at reducing violence against women.

Through the partnership, players will be identified to become advocates to speak out against domestic violence. They will raise awareness in schools, communities and within league itself about reducing violence against women.

Speaking of the Campaign, Minister for International Development and the Pacific, The Hon Steven Ciobo MP said: “Cultural change is critical to end violence against women. Men are part of the solution and must become agents for positive change - sport is a powerful tool and can be the vehicle for this change.

Addressing violence against women is a priority for the Australian Government. Through our aid program, Australia is working closely with Pacific communities and governments to ensure women have the political, social and economic opportunities to enable them to participate fully in their countries' development.”

The Hon Steven Ciobo MP was joined by Melbourne Storm player and Fijian Marika Koroibete who has put his hand up to help end the scourge of domestic violence.

The male advocacy initiative is currently in the planning stage and will be developed in coordination with the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre.