Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett, today called on residents in the Burnett electorate to support Bravehearts’ events like White Balloon Day to help raise awareness and stop child sexual assault in Australia. White Balloon Day is on Friday September 7, 2012, as part of National Child Protection Week which runs from September 2 to 8.
The local community is encouraged to show their support for White Balloon Day by wearing white, whiting out the office or classroom, tying a white balloon to their mailbox or hosting a fundraising function.
The annual event, which is now in its sixteenth year, aims to raise $500,000, with the money raised going into support education, prevention and counselling programs for children who have been sexually assaulted.
Mr Bennett said it was vital to raise awareness and protect children from sexual abuse.
“Child sexual abuse is one of the most repulsive crimes,” he said.
“Through Bravehearts’ dedication and commitment to protect all children they are striving to make Australia a safer place for them.
“We must educate, empower and protect our children.”
Bravehearts’ research shows that one in five children will be sexually assaulted before their 18th birthday. Equally as alarming is the fact that in 85 per cent of cases, the offender is known to the child and is a relative or a trusted friend.
Bravehearts provides an education program called Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure to schools and day care centres nationwide that educates, empowers and protects, ensuring children are equipped with the confidence to come forward and the skills required to handle themselves when faced with an unsafe situation.
More information and ideas for community participation can be online at www.whiteballoonday.com.au