Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown): "We won't be quiet. We won't be silent. We say no to domestic violence." That was the chant we heard at a powerful march in Newcastle on Saturday 23 July before hearing moving stories from people whose lives have been affected by domestic violence.

I thank What Were You Wearing? for organising the march. In particular, I acknowledge Mackenzie Anderson's mum, Tabitha Acret, for sharing her absolutely gracious perspective.

Instead of preparing for her late daughter's twenty-second birthday, Tabitha was working to help ensure that no other family has to endure what she has. Mackenzie was murdered by her ex-partner on 1 April this year.

I am in awe of Tabitha's resilience and generosity of spirit. She, and so many other women, will not let the conversation end. I thank everyone who was involved in the march. We will always, and should always, say no to domestic violence.