Domestic Violence

Mr DAVID HARRIS (Wyong) [1.13 p.m.]: Today I would like to speak about a worthwhile and inspirational project that has been initiated in my electorate of Wyong. Sadly, the motivation for this project came from a source that has a very negative effect on our society and is a lot more prevalent than we would want it to be. I refer to domestic violence. It is disturbing to report that the Central Coast has the second highest rate of domestic violence out of 14 divisions in New South Wales. One in four children are living with domestic violence. This means that in a class of 25 students, potentially five students are victims of domestic violence—physical or emotional. No-one doubts that the social and economic impact of domestic violence is far-reaching and potentially devastating.

The agencies, particularly schools, involved with children who are in such a household often report high absenteeism, poor concentration, underachievement and emotional problems. The long-term impact on the educational potential of these students is significant and of great concern. These issues must be addressed. But, as I said before, I am not here today just to talk about the negative ramifications of domestic violence on our society. I am sure all members agree that in an ideal world it would not exist. However, amidst this doom and gloom something is happening on the Central Coast that is solution focused and reaching out to empower the youth affected by domestic violence and raise awareness of the effect of domestic violence on families in our community.

Enter Kevin Pearce, a solicitor with Aubrey Brown Partners, Wyong. Through his daily work Kevin saw a real need to find solutions to and educate our community about domestic violence. He had a vision for a high school video production competition that would engage students and staff in something positive and educational, yet also address his concerns. Now, a competition means entrants and of course prizes so Kevin approached Wyong Leagues Club Group and presented his proposal. It was enthusiastically received by the executive and committee, so much so that the Wyong Leagues Club Group has made available significant prize money—$6,000 in all—as an incentive for schools to become involved. The role of Wyong Leagues Club Group as major sponsor is greatly appreciated by all concerned with the project.

The 'ScreenIT' team was then established at Wadalba Community School to create and conduct this project across all Central Coast high schools. ScreenIT is a cross-discipline/curriculum team with representation from information technology, visual arts, children and community services, the Student Representative Council, and the Personal Development, Health and Physical Education faculty. Glenn Mullaney, a teacher at Wadalba, is the coordinator and passionately believes in the value of the project. He talks about the amazing abilities of the students involved and how they have come to embrace the project, feeling that it gives real hope to this important issue. Students involved are mainly from years 10, 11 and 12. Kevin Pearce has been able to organise a visit to Wyong courthouse for the students involved. Here they were able to research and experience the facilities available to victims of domestic violence. They spoke with police prosecutors, police, domestic violence liaison officers and Women's Domestic Violence Court Assistance Program staff. This session was most beneficial and provided important background information that will be helpful during the filmmaking.

Glenn Mullaney is quick to point out that this project is principally about education and providing information, knowledge and skill in proposing possible solutions and actions. In short the organisers believe that by involving students in such a project they can "make a difference" to the impact of domestic violence in our community. Glenn Mullaney has been thrilled so far with the response from not only the students at his school, Wadalba, but from schools across the Central Coast. The end product from each team entering will be a three-minute film, all of which will be shown on a special presentation night later this year. However, as part of the assessment, teams are also required to take part in an interview to discuss their work.

Much thought and planning has gone into this project and all the organisers are to be congratulated on their care and professionalism. This truly has the potential to make a positive out of a negative situation. I was very pleased to be interviewed by students from Wadalba Community School—Rebecca McNeil, Besime Shevket, Nicholas Campbell, Tianna Gunner, Kiarna Hampton—who videotaped the interview, which will be used on the website. I was very pleased to be able to support this very important project. I am sure everyone here will join with me in wishing those involved good luck. I look forward to being able to report later this year on the films produced.