New sports awards to recognise domestic violence awareness

Minister for Women’s Policy, Bess Price, has tonight announced a new award category for the Northern Territory Sports Awards.

“Domestic and family violence remains a critical issue for Territorians and this new category will recognise sporting clubs and players who actively raise awareness about domestic and family violence,” Mrs Price said.

“We as a community can no longer remain silent on this issue and I hope this award not only raises awareness, but ultimately prevents domestic violence.

“There are already strong links between sporting associations and awareness about domestic violence, and I believe this award will celebrate those players and clubs working hard to end the cycle.

“For those victims who are unable to speak for themselves, we must support, and for those who perpetrate, we must condemn and say ‘no more’ to violence.

“The name of the award will be announced when the nominations open for the 2015 NT Sports Awards.”
Minister for Sport, Recreation and Racing Matt Conlan welcomed tonight’s announcement.

“I know this new award category will be warmly embraced by the Northern Territory sporting community,” Mr Conlan said.

“Many sporting organisations are already active in raising awareness about stoping domestic violence, particularly the Northern Territory Football League.

“At this season’s Grand Final it was great to see players from St Marys and Wanderers link arms before the opening bounce, delivering a powerful message to the 9000-strong crowd they do not tolerate domestic violence.

“The new award will allow us to officially recognise efforts such as this and provide extra incentive for more clubs and organisations to get involved in helping to stamp out domestic violence in the Territory.

“I congratulate Minister Price for introducing the new award and look forward to next year’s event.”

Media Contact: Lauren Crawley 0417 145 050