Thousands of West Australians have gathered at Forrest Place to protest the growing numbers of women killed by men they know, joining tens of thousands across the country.
Scheduled speakers include human rights lawyer Rabia Siddique, social media activist Constance Hall and Senator Dorinda Cox.
Domestic Abuse Resource and Training director Jolene Ellat used her speech to the crowd to praise the Cook Government’s recent announcement of $96 million in additional funding but said cultural change is needed as well.
“We call upon the government to acknowledge the severity of the situation. We cannot just throw money at this problem and expect things to change,” she said.
“It is a systemic issue that demands urgent attention — we need decisive action a considered approach and an evidence-based approach, not empty promises or hollow rhetoric.”
Tens of thousands, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, have gathered at rallies across the country over the weekend, lending their voices to growing anger and despair at the continued killing of women by men they know.
Statistics show in 2024, a woman has allegedly died at the hands of her partner every four days.
They have included several in Western Australia, with a man accused of killing his partner Erica Hay appearing at a Perth court on Sunday — hours before the scheduled rally and march in the CBD.
Police allege that Luke Sekkouah physically assaulted Ms Hay at their shared home on Currie Street in Warnbro, last week before setting the property alight while she was inside.
Among the scheduled speakers at Forrest Chase were Alison and Will Scott — the father and brother of Jessica Bairnsfather-Scott who was killed by her partner in 2019.
Harold Carter admitted murdering his partner of 12 years — but claimed he had been suffering from mental health issues brought on by his meth use in the months and weeks before her death.
He also claimed it was the former health sector worker who provoked his murderous reaction.
Justice Joseph McGrath rejected his assertions.
“The offender attempted to flee the jurisdiction. He was endeavouring to do so when he was arrested at Perth Airport,” he said.