Less than one year after the horrific incident that saw her 11 year old son’s life taken by his own father, Rosie Batty has emerged as Australian of the Year in recognition of her commitment to stamp out domestic violence in Australia.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) remains steadfast in its efforts to curb the alarming epidemic of domestic abuse in Australia and honours Ms Batty for her courage and selflessness in the face of unimaginable grief.
The Australian of the Year award celebrates the contributions and achievements of an eminent Australian citizen and is awarded to a nominee who has acted as a role model.
RACGP President Dr Frank R Jones said Ms Batty has shown remarkable bravery and given a voice to thousands of victims of domestic violence who suffer in silence.
“Ms Batty has put domestic violence on the national agenda, breaking the silence on what has been a disturbingly prevalent issue in this country for too long,” said Dr Jones.
“Just hours after the murder of her son Luke, Rosie Batty spoke out about her experience, driving home to every Australian the realisation that domestic violence can happen to anyone.
“She has channeled her grief into raising awareness about domestic violence, calling for systemic change through public speaking and media events and shining a spotlight on a dark side of Australian society.”
Through a mother’s worst nightmare, Ms Batty has forced all Australians to confront the issue of family violence head on.
“The RACGP has long maintained that GPs are in a unique position to support and protect victims of family violence through appropriate prevention, identification and intervention.
“It is vital GPs are adequately skilled to identify victims of domestic violence, who may not be forthcoming with this information, and understand the nature of this abuse so they can help break the cycle.”
The RACGP’s Abuse and violence: working with our patients in general practice (4th edition) guidelines (the White book) helps ensure GPs are best placed to treat patients who either report or present with symptoms of violence.
The RACGP congratulations Ms Batty on this well-deserved recognition and will continue to work with agencies and those in the community committed to curb domestic violence in Australia.