BOSSES MAKE A STAND AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

BRISBANE business and community leaders have taken a stand to end domestic violence against women by banding together today in support of White Ribbon Day.

More than one woman a week is killed by a current or former partner nationally, according to White Ribbon Australia.

Now in its 12th year, the campaign focuses on the positive role men can play to break the cycle of those few men who are violent.

Signing up as a Male Champion of Change, 13 prominent executives from across the state have joined the Queensland Leaders Stand Up campaign.

McCullough Robertson chairman of partners and advocate Dominic McGann (pictured below) says domestic violence is a sad reality for many women in the community.

"Whether it occurs in or beyond the workplace we know it does impact on the health and safety of women at work and their overall wellbeing," McGann says.

"At McCullough Robertson, the safety and welfare of our staff is an absolute priority and we have measures in place to help anyone suffering or at risk of domestic violence.

"I am proud to represent the firm in this campaign to stand up and speak out about violence against women in all its forms."

Other Queensland Male Champions of Change include Brisbane Housing Company CEO David Cant, St Joseph's College principal Dr Michael Carroll, QIC CEO Damian Frawley, Aurizon CEO Lance Hockridge, LaBoite Theatre Company CEO Todd MacDonald, Savills Australia CEO Paul McLean, Ausenco CEO Zimi Meka, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, Rowland chairman Geoff Rodgers, Cardno CEO Richard Wankmuller, Department of the Premier and Cabinet director-general Dave Stewart and CCIQ CEO Stephen Tait.

White Ribbon Australia chief John Rosewarne says prevention work is also rolled out in schools and workplaces to drive a cultural shift.

"These communities represent the critical role of collective action to drive change," Rosewarne says.

"It is everyone's responsibility to make this happen. We need ongoing action amongst our schools, workplaces, sporting clubs and politicians, if we are to become a society committed to respect, stopping the violence and delivering true gender equality."

Speaking at the White Ribbon Day breakfast, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says the government will lead by example as the state's largest employer.

Public sector employees experiencing domestic violence will be offered 10 days paid leave each year to attend medical, legal and counselling appointments and arrange alternative accommodation.

"I encourage all Queensland employers to look at what we are doing and think about what they can do in their own workplaces to help colleagues at their most vulnerable," Palaszczuk says.

"A lot is happening on the domestic violence front because a lot needs to happen to deliver on our ultimate goal to end the violence.

"What we are aiming for is nothing less than a transformation of our culture."