It all started after the Bondi Junction incident… how is it okay that when something like this happens, women have no way to defend themselves?

I’m Jayde, a mum from Victoria. Like so many women across Australia, I’m tired of feeling scared,  tired of looking over my shoulder just to do something as simple as taking my kids to the shops. That’s why I started this petition: to legalise pepper spray for self-defence.

For me, this isn’t just about women. I’ve spoken to disabled people who can’t defend themselves, and to members of the LGBT community — including gay men who have been victims of sexual assault. Every kind of person deserves the option to protect themselves. Pepper spray is non-lethal, but it could mean the difference between walking away safe and never making it home.

When I heard about the trial starting in the Northern Territory this September, I thought — finally, some progress. But what about the rest of us? Why should safety only be available based on where you live? Western Australia already allows pepper spray. It’s time the rest of Australia caught up. That’s why I am calling on leaders to legalise pepper spray nationally for those with no violent criminal history.

I don’t want to keep waking up to news of another woman murdered, another family shattered. We can change this, but I can’t do it alone. I need your help to show our leaders that we will no longer stay silent. Please add your name to my petition today.