According to Bureau of Crimes Statistics and Research Blacktown and Penrith have the highest incidents of family violence in NSW.

Due to the overbearing need in Western Sydney, We would like to launch new programs in Western Sydney LGA. These programs will be specifically targeting young people who have experienced family violence, offering supporting for them and their communities.

Currently we lack the funds to launch this program which is why we implore the local Government to aid our deliver of a family violence specific program

Please sign our petition so we can support young people in need with our evidence-based early intervention programs.

Studies show that living with domestic violence can cause physical and emotional harm to children and young people in the following ways:

- ongoing anxiety and depression
- emotional distress
- eating and sleeping disturbances
- physical symptoms, such as headaches and stomach aches
- find it hard to manage stress
- low self-esteem
- self-harm
- be aggressive towards friends and school mates
- feel guilt or blame themselves for the violence
- have trouble forming positive relationships
- develop phobias and insomnia
- struggle with going to school and doing school work
- use bullying behaviour or become a target of bullying
- difficulty concentrating
- find it hard to solve problems
- have less empathy and caring for others

Young people exposed to domestic and family violence are more likely to suffer from

- depression
- be homeless
- buse drugs and alcohol
- engage in risk-taking behaviours
- experience or use violence and be controlling and manipulative in relationships

Your signature can make a BIG difference in a young persons life