The social activist artwork ‘The Lost Petition’ was unveiled to Parliament on Monday, one day ahead of Budget Day, urging a commitment to action on gendered violence in Australia.
The Lost Petition is now located in the Authorised Assembly Area at the front of Parliament House in Canberra, with the 30 metre long fabric artwork listing all of the names of women and children who have lost their lives to gendered violence since 2008.
Created by Melbourne-based artist Dans Bain, there are 978 women and children listed on the artwork, all of whom have lost their lives to violence.
Bains said in a statement that the artwork is in Canberra to raise awareness of the issues concerning women’s health and safety.
“We need to see all levels of government improve policies, funding, education and introduce initiatives in an effort to prevent violence against women and children,” said Bains.
“I have taken The Lost Petition to Parliament House the day before Budget Day because I want to see an adequate response to the issue of gendered violence in Australia not only reflected in this budget, but for all parties to signal their commitment and responsive policies to this issue in the upcoming election.
“As we are in an election year, I have invited MPs from all sides of politics to attend because I want MPs to take up the call to end gendered violence, review sexual assault laws and introduce a national gender equality act,” said Bain.
“The budget must reflect adequate funding for prevention services and more funding for women and children in domestic abuse and family violence crisis, platforms for organisations and people most affected by domestic abuse, family violence and gendered violence to be heard.”
For support for domestic and sexual violence, please call:
· 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732
· Women’s Crisis Line: 1800 811 811
· Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491
· Mensline: 1300 789 978
· Lifeline (24-hour Crisis Line): 131 114