This Grand Final weekend, 1800RESPECT messaging will also be displayed inside and outside Accor Stadium to raise awareness of support available.

Research in Australia and overseas has shown that major sporting events coincide with an increase in domestic and family violence incidents and greater demand for support services.

While many in the community gather to cheer on their team, there will be others who don’t feel safe in their homes.

For victim-survivors, major sporting events can be a particularly challenging time, which is why awareness, early intervention and calling out unacceptable behaviour matter.

The recent shocking incidents of domestic and family violence are a painful reminder that this unacceptable violence continues to have a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities across NSW.

The NSW Government has introduced a range of reforms aimed at preventing violence before it starts, supporting victim-survivors and holding perpetrators accountable.

This is backed by a $184 million investment in the most recent state budget to increase the funding for six frontline domestic and family violence programs by 50 percent.

As part of the NSW Government’s Primary Prevention Strategy the government has invested almost $6 million into supporting sport-based programs that address the gendered drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence, and contribute to positive behaviour change.

The Minns Labor Government will continue to act to ensure women and children across the state are safe, but we cannot do this without the community’s help.

If you are concerned about your own safety or the safety of someone you know contact:

• 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for free, confidential 24-hour support
• In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000)

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“For many people, the NRL Grand Final weekend is a chance to spend time with friends and family and enjoy one of Australia’s great sporting events.

“But for some people, home is not a safe place, and weekends like this can be particularly difficult.

“Domestic and family violence is not a private matter. It has devastating consequences for victim-survivors, families and communities, and we all have a role to play in preventing it.

“Government has a responsibility to act, but so do all of us. Sometimes checking in, speaking up or helping someone get support can make a real difference.”

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“The NRL Grand Final is a great opportunity to celebrate the role sport plays in bringing people together.

“Whether it’s at the highest level or in our grassroots community clubs, sport has the power to shape attitudes and change behaviour.

“That’s why we’re supporting grassroots clubs to help change the harmful attitudes that enable violence and help create a culture where everyone feels safe.”

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

“For many people, major sporting events are a time of fun and mateship, but we know they can also be a particularly difficult time for women and children experiencing violence and abuse.

“We want everyone to enjoy the Grand Final safely and respectfully, whether they’re at the game, watching at home or cheering on with family and friends.

“Preventing violence requires all of us to challenge the attitudes and behaviours that can drive abuse, support victim-survivors and speak up when something isn’t right.

“Check in on friends, family members and neighbours, and know that support is available if someone needs help.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home, every day of the year.”