COMMUNITY

As the first anniversary of Isla’s alleged murder was headlined in the news, I’m not surprised that the government still hasn’t allocated funds to help cope with the aftermath. When victims have no savings, they often fall even deeper into hardship, slipping into a lower socioeconomic bracket they weren’t in before. It’s heartbreaking how much preventable grief, trauma, and frustration pile up because of the long delays and the way our systems are designed.

I sometimes wonder about the Australian government’s cautious pace when it comes to urgent issues. They seem to shift funds around to treat the symptoms of a sick society, rather than tackling the root causes. Journalist Sherele Moody is the creator of Australian Femicide Watch and the Red Heart campaign. She is a great source of information and provides free support and guidance navigating the complexities of femicide. She continues to validate my experiences and makes me feel less isolated. Conversations with Our Watch, Australia’s leader in preventing violence against women have provided expert educational material and valuable insights into the media sector.

On a different note, I’ve been blown away by the kindness from strangers. I have kept messages from people I’ve never met that bring me comfort. One small thing that touched me deeply was a framed tapestry sent my way. The tribute murals created by graffiti artists in memory of Isla moved me even more. Seeing my daughter’s name in huge letters was confronting yet powerful. What really hit me was when Elli Sheeran, a student from RMIT, turned her graduation piece—intentionally—toward the wall, dedicating it to Isla and other women and children who lost their lives last year. Other artists followed her lead, creating a spontaneous exhibition that prioritised public awareness over personal gain. Personally, I felt a tangible outpouring of love and respect that carries me to this day. Poems and song’s have been written too. Acts of human kindness and expression that unite us in empathy and are a part of the solution.