Northern Beaches Council is officially an accredited White Ribbon workplace following a recent ceremony in Dee Why at Council's Chambers.

Mayor Michael Regan said domestic violence is a society issue everyone needs to acknowledge.

“Our staff have said they will stand up, speak out and act to stop domestic violence,” the Mayor said.

“We are one of only a handful of Councils across NSW that have backed the initiative.

“In becoming a White Ribbon accredited workplace, Northern Beaches Council has become one of the first places in NSW to put in place ten days paid leave for any of their employees affected by domestic violence.

“We have implemented domestic violence training to all our managers and provided a range of tools to help them support anyone impacted.

“Council will also continue to also spread the White Ribbon message across the Northern Beaches and support community groups fighting to put an end to domestic violence.”

White Ribbon recently revealed some shocking statistics when it comes to instances of ‘DV’ across Australia.

An estimated 25 per cent of women have experienced emotional abuse by a current or former partner since the age of 15 and 20 per cent of women have experienced sexual violence at the same age.

Additionally, almost 50 per cent of women have experienced sexual harassment during a lifetime and violence against women is estimated to cost the economy $22 billion a year.

Media Enquires: media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au (02) 9942 2678