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Hollywood star Nicole Kidman has urged the Australian government to give greater support to victims of domestic violence.
A survey of 1500 readers of New Idea magazine found 76 per cent had been the victims of violence, 70 per cent had been physically attacked and half had been
raped or sexually molested.
The survey also showed 80 per cent of readers who responded cited their partner as the perpetrator, with 20 per cent saying they experienced abuse on a daily basis.
Kidman, who is a UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador, said domestic violence was a violation of human rights.
"These statistics always shock me," Kidman told New Idea's annual White Issue, which aims to raise awareness of domestic violence.
"As I learn much more about the problem and I think of the numbers of women at risk I am shocked.
"I know why people call violence against women a pandemic.
"It is perhaps the most widespread human rights abuse violation."
The star called for a greater level of support for victims.
"I urge the government to do more in relation to victim support services," she said.
"There needs to be a dramatic increase in counselling services for victims of sexual assault and victims need to be supported better by police and the courts.
"And secondly, there needs to be a huge increase in short and long term accommodation for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
"At the moment, I believe, one in two women who approach a refuge are turned away."
Kidman urged everyone to take a stand against domestic violence.
"Know it's not your fault and don't ever feel that it is," she said.
"Know that violence towards you is never ever okay.
"I think it is so important that New Idea is supporting White Ribbon Day next week.
"Wearing a white ribbon is a sign of a commitment to not commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and children.
"To change community attitudes, we must all talk about it and take a stand against it."
The survey also found 58 per cent of respondents said they have remained in a violent relationship.
Of these, 63 per cent stayed for years compared to 11 per cent who stayed months.
Only 29 per cent said they stayed because they still loved their partner, while 50 per cent had no money to leave and 37 per cent were too scared to break up the family.
New South Wales Women's Refuge Movement Resource Centre executive director Catherine Gander said without access to safe affordable housing, many women returned to violent situations placing them and their children at risk.
"A co-ordinated and robust response is required from all Australian governments, through a National Strategy to Reduce Violence Against Women."
- AAP
