National Family Violence Remembrance Day is held annually as an important reminder of the devastating impact family violence has on individuals, families and communities. 

Latrobe City Council is hosting a Candlelight Vigil on Wednesday 6 May 2026 at 6pm at Gippsland Performing Arts Centre (GPAC), to honour and remember those who have lost their lives due to family violence. 

The free community event will provide an opportunity for reflection, with attendees invited to come together in a show of support and solidarity. 

Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Sharon Gibson said the Candlelight Vigil plays an important role in raising awareness and encouraging important conversations. 

“Violence is never acceptable. Not in the home, not any place, any time or anywhere, not for anyone,” the Mayor said. 

“While statistics show that women are the victims of family violence in most cases, men too can be victims. 

“It’s also important to recognise that family violence can have such a devastating impact on children and the extended family, and what is this teaching our children?” 

“In years gone by, some may have turned a blind eye to family violence, but as individuals and collectively as a community, we need to speak up if we see or suspect that someone may be experiencing family violence.” 

“If, as a society, we ignore such behaviour, it’s the same as accepting it. Which I’m sure is not what we want.” 

The Mayor encouraged community members to attend the vigil and stand together in support of those impacted. 

Services that are free and confidential include Safe Steps (1800 015 188), which provides 24/7 family violence support, and The Orange Door (1800 319 354), which operates Monday to Friday. If you are in immediate danger, call 000 and ask to speak to police. 

The Candlelight Vigil at GPAC is one way Council is showing support for those impacted by family violence, and community members are encouraged to attend and help keep the conversation going.