01/12/2025
The Man Walk were honoured to have guest presenter, Krystal Laurentsch, join us this morning as part of our engagement with the 16 days in WA campaign. Krystal presented on the topic “Why she stayed and how we can support safety”.
Many women find it incredibly difficult – and frequently highly dangerous – to leave an abusive relationship. Friends, family and communities, including work colleagues, can provide important support.
Domestic and family violence remains a major issue in Australia, affecting one in four women, with high rates of emotional, physical and sexual abuse and life long plus cross generational consequences. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women experience far higher rates of harm, linked to long-standing systemic disadvantage.
Leaving an abusive partner is rarely simple. Emotional factors like trauma bonding, fear, control, and hope that the relationship will improve can keep women trapped. Practical barriers such as financial dependence, lack of housing, and fear of homelessness also play a major role. Social pressures—including isolation, shame, cultural expectations, and fear of losing children—add further complexity. Importantly, the time when a woman tries to leave is often the most dangerous.
Allies can help by listening without judgment, believing the survivors story, and offering support without pressure. Providing safe resources, understanding risks, and modelling respect are essential.
Organisations such as Harbour in the South West are doing amazing work assisting with crisis accommodation and home support. Sadly, many women and children seeking support can not be accommodated. Organisations such as Harbour also provide support with safety planning involving preparing documents, identifying safe places, protecting technology, and teaching children what to do in an emergency.
All elements of our community, including workplaces can contribute by building a culture of respect that actively challenges coercion and violence, supports survivors, and promotes healthy relationships.
Also sharing their experiences at the session were Colin West, MenAble's representative on The SW White Ribbon Committee and Craig Crampton, who with MenAble Australia Inc's support, delivers the Aware360 program to teenage boys and girls in local schools promoting situational awareness and tactics for violence prevention and safety.
Krystal is Board Chair of Harbour Refuge and Support Services, CEO at Oseca Health, a Councillor with the Shire of Dardanup and prior NED at The Patricia Giles Centre for Non-Violence.
