Media Release by The Hon Paul Fletcher MP

Natasha Stott Despoja reappointed to Our Watch board

Minister for Families and Social Services, Paul Fletcher, has announced that Natasha Stott Despoja AM has been reappointed as Board Chair of Our Watch for a further three years.

Ms Stott Despoja was appointed in 2013 as the founding Chair of the independent, not-for-profit organisation, which was established by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments as a key National Partner under the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010-2022.

Our Watch has since worked to drive nationwide change in community attitudes and behaviours that lead to violence against women and their children.

“Ms Stott Despoja has been a tireless advocate for women around the world, in particular for the prevention of violence,” said Mr Fletcher.

“I thank her for her continued leadership and commitment to Our Watch and look forward to working with the organisation as it progresses critical prevention work to address family and domestic violence in Australia.”

Mr Fletcher also extended his congratulations to Kerry Chikarovski, who will continue as the Commonwealth-appointed Director of the Our Watch Board.

“Ms Chikarovski has served in this role since 2015. Her strong business and representational skills have been an asset to the Our Watch Board during this time,” said Mr Fletcher.

“Ms Stott Despoja and Ms Chikarovski’s combined passion and drive will be instrumental in supporting Our Watch to continue delivering innovative prevention strategies.”

The Commonwealth and Victorian Governments have also agreed to continue to provide base funding to Our Watch until 30 June 2020, and will each contribute $1 million per year to the organisation.

Our Watch’s focus is on projects that will create cultural change to help break the cycle of violence against women and their children. This includes community campaigns, work to improve media reporting, partnerships with sporting codes and the development of resources. To find out more about Our Watch and its work, visit www.ourwatch.org.au.