A coalition of pubs, bottle shops, and clubs in the Hunter region is initiating a campaign aimed at raising awareness about domestic and family violence. The Lake Macquarie Liquor Accord, representing approximately 80 licensed venues in the area, will officially launch this initiative on October 14, 2023, at the Belmont 16s sailing club. This proactive effort is in partnership with local police and supported by the Lake Macquarie City Council, emphasizing that alcohol is never an excuse for violence.
Scott Williams, chair of the Lake Macquarie Liquor Accord and CEO of Belmont 16s, stated that the group intends to address alcohol-related issues affecting the community. As part of the campaign, signage will be displayed in participating venues, with one poster highlighting that domestic violence is a community issue, not a private one. Williams remarked, “It’s a bit of a call to action engagement piece.”
Another key message targets men, emphasizing that alcohol should not be considered a justification for domestic violence. As part of the strategy, the group plans to place this signage in men’s bathrooms to reach a broader audience. Additionally, digital assets will be developed for use on websites to further spread the campaign’s message.
“We have a role to play as licensed venues to become part of the conversation,” said Williams. He explained that the initiative aims to highlight that domestic and family violence encompasses various forms of abuse, including emotional, financial, psychological, and physical. The campaign will provide information to help community members recognize signs of abuse and understand the steps they can take if they find themselves in an unsafe domestic environment.
According to data, domestic violence-related assaults in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie increased by 13.1 percent over two years, ending June 2025. Superintendent Tracy Chapman of the Lake Macquarie police district emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues, declaring that domestic violence is one of the most pressing concerns facing the community. “In New South Wales, police respond to an incident every three minutes, yet we know this is just the tip of the iceberg,” she noted.
Chapman encouraged community members to take an active role in speaking out against domestic violence, stating, “We all have a role to play in speaking up and challenging the silence that allows this behavior to continue. I hope this campaign can raise awareness and remind people that alcohol is no excuse.”
The Lake Macquarie Liquor Accord is setting a precedent for licensed venues to engage in discussions surrounding domestic violence and work collaboratively to foster a safer environment for all. As the campaign unfolds, it aims not only to raise awareness but also to galvanize community action against domestic and family violence.
