Unmute yourself – Speaking up to end violence against women
Kristy Masella, Andy Saunders, Renee Thomson and Sean Choolburra share a common message—even the simplest, smallest actions can make a big difference for young people, and for our community.
The Stop it at the Start campaign encourages adults to positively influence the attitudes and behaviours of young people aged 10-17 years by role modelling positive behaviour, calling out disrespect and starting conversations about respect.
Stop it at the Start aims to unite the community around positive actions everyone can take to break the cycle of disrespect and ultimately, violence against women.
Community influencers and campaign supporters Kristy Masella, Andy Saunders, Renee Thomson, and Sean Choolburra share a common message—even the simplest, smallest actions can make a big difference for young people and for our community. Hear from each of them below.
Viewer caution: the following videos discusses disrespectful behaviours. Although our message encourages respectful behavioural changes amongst individuals, violence isn’t always physical. Support is available for people experiencing violence and abuse. For phone counselling, call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au
Kristy and Kiki Masella – Mother and Daughter conversation about respect
Darumbal woman, Kristy Masella, talks with daughter Kiki about how she goes about having conversations about respect.
Andy and Tyler Saunders – Father and Son conversation about respect
Biripi man Andy Saunders talk with son Tyler about the positive influencers in his life when it comes to respect for women and how he teaches his own children.
Renee & TJ - The importance of raising respectful young people
Wiradjuri woman Renee Thompson chats to nephew TJ about finding the courage to speak up about respect, even when we might feel embarrassed or that it’s not our place.
Sean Choolburra and Tyra – Tips on how to speak up when you see disrespect
Girramay, Kalkadoon, Pitta and Gugu Yalanji man, Sean Choolburra, chats with daughter Tyra about the importance of reflecting on our learnt attitudes and behaviours in order to set a positive example about respect for our young people.
Find out more
Tools and resources are available to help inform people about how they can reflect on their own attitudes, role model positive behaviours, and start conversations about respect with the young people in their lives and others in the community.
If you or someone you know is experiencing or at risk of domestic, family or sexual violence contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
Stop it at the Start is part of the third phase of the Australian Government national campaign to reduce violence against women.