16 Days of Activism
25 November to 10 December
On average, a woman in Australia is killed by a man they know every 4-5 days. This violence is not inevitable - it is preventable.
The 16 Days of Activism is a global campaign to end gender-based violence. Every year, communities around the world join the call to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls and all forms of gender-based violence.
Council is committed to building a community that is safe, inclusive and respectful and where everyone can live free from violence, and the fear of violence.
In 2025, we are once again running the Free to Be Me photo competition and exhibition, and a range of other activities, including a Walk Against Family Violence, a Story Walk, film screenings, panel discussions and more.
Free to Be Me Photo Competition
Expectations and beliefs about what people can or can't do because of their gender contributes to violence against women. Men can be gentle. Women can be powerful.
Enter a photograph that shows all the ways we can be free to be me.
The competition is open to anyone over 12 who lives, works, or plays in the Macedon Ranges (some permissions may apply). One entry per person.
Prizes
- First Place Adult: $200 Cash + $200 Framing by Maddisons
- First Place Youth (12-25): $150 Cash + $150 Framing by Maddisons
- Highly Commended Adult: $100 Cash
- Highly Commended Youth: $50 Cash
- Zonta Club of Kyneton People’s Choice Award: $200 cash
How to enter
The competition opens on Monday 29 September and closes on Sunday 2 November 2025.
Find out more about the competition terms and conditions, and submit your entry at the Free to Be Me Photo Competition Portal
With thanks to Maddisons of Gisborne, The Social Foundry, Zonta Club of Kyneton, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and Safe+Equal Respect Victoria.
Local Events
Events are listed below as details are confirmed.
If you or your community group are holding a community event as part of the 16 Days of Activism, register your event and we'll include it in the list.
Prevention of violence is a challenge that belongs to us all. We encourage community to get involved and stand with victim-survivors as we move towards a culture where women are safe, equal and respected.
If you have any questions or feedback about this campaign, call (03) 5422 0333 or email comdevadmin@mrsc.vic.gov.au