FREMANTLE Chamber of Commerce CEO Chrissie Maus has revealed she experienced domestic violence in a previous relationship, calling for more to be done to curb Australia’s stubbornly high rates.
In her column in today’s Herald (see page 10), Ms Maus says she was shocked when every single friend at a recent dinner party had their own story to tell about facing domestic violence.
“I think many of us still carry an outdated picture of who experiences domestic violence and who perpetrates it,” Ms Maus said.
“There’s this social myth that it happens to other demographics, not to people who look like us or live like us.
“Even with my own lived experience, hearing everyone share so openly reminded me that domestic violence cuts across every income bracket, every profession and every suburb.
“It’s far more universal than we like to admit.”
Ms Maus said a conversation about the national focus on the issue soon shifted from “policy to personal reality”.
“It felt like everyone had been quietly carrying their own story or someone else’s, and all it took was one person to open the door for the rest to walk through.”
She says a safe environment encouraged others to share.
Ms Maus said at the time she didn’t label her “harm” as domestic violence because it didn’t fit the stereotype.
“I also played it down as so minor.
“That’s very common and part of why these conversations matter.”
Ms Maus said she didn’t access formal crisis services, but relied on her informal network: “Friends who checked in and helped me understand the patterns and regain my confidence.”
She says not everyone has the privilege, which is why she was a strong advocate for “accessible, well-resourced support pathways for people who need them.”
Friday November 21 is White Ribbon Day, and if you’ve got an early Herald the City of Fremantle has an “interactive urn” and installation at the Walyalup Civic Centre honouring the memory of women and children killed this year through domestic violence, with victims’ stories displayed throughout the day.
by STEVE GRANT