HAMSTR. BALL IS NOT REAL...

However, the violence and victim-blaming women experience in our society is.

As a response to increased sexual violence in Melbourne in 2018, Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper advised the public to "...be aware of their own personal security and just be mindful of their surroundings."

A culture of victim blaming still exists in our society. Women are expected to be responsible for avoiding or reducing the violence perpetrated against them, rather than holding perpetrators responsible for their actions.

It is necessary to highlight that women are not complicit in their victimisation, and it is important to break down assumptions about gendered violence - whether in the home or in public.

Hamstr. was created by Melbourne City Mission's Youth Action Group - a committee of young people passionate about social justice. Through the Hamstr. Ball campaign, we wanted to challenge the public's understanding of women's safety. Expecting women to experience public spaces inside a giant plastic bubble is no more reasonable than expecting them to 'be vigilant', or avoid parks, or never walk home alone.

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Women are never responsible for the violence enacted upon them, and our goal is to change the public discourse around violence against women to be more supportive, respectful, and inclusive. See below for some tips and advice on how you can address victim blaming attitudes in everyday conversations.