Women’s Health Loddon Mallee extends our deepest sympathies to Layla Jeffery’s family, friends, and the entire Donald community following the tragic death of 13-year-old Layla. Current reporting confirms that a 16-year-old male has been charged with murder and the matter is now before the courts.
Women’s Health Loddon Mallee CEO Kellie Dunn said, “The loss of a child is a tragedy beyond comprehension. We acknowledge the profound grief, shock and heartbreak being experienced by Layla’s loved ones, her peers and the wider community.”
As an organisation dedicated to advancing gender equality and creating the conditions for women and girls to be safe, respected and able to thrive, we recognise the devastating impact violence has on individuals, families and communities. Every girl has the right to grow up safe, respected and free from violence, harm and fear.
Gender inequality is a key driver of violence against women and girls, and advancing equality is fundamental to creating safer communities.
“We cannot accept violence as inevitable. Every woman and girl has the right to live safely, with dignity, respect and equality. As we mourn the loss of Layla, we are reminded that preventing violence requires sustained action to advance gender equality, strengthen respectful relationships and create the conditions for all women and girls to thrive.” CEO Kellie Dunn
As we stand alongside Layla’s family and the Donald community in mourning, we also reaffirm our commitment to preventing violence before it occurs. Through advancing gender equality, fostering respectful relationships, strengthening community leadership and mobilising collective action, we can help create communities across our region where women and girls are safe, respected and able to thrive.
Preventing violence requires sustained collective action. Communities, organisations, schools, workplaces, leaders and individuals all have a role to play in promoting equality, respect and safety.
If this news has impacted you or someone you know, please remember that support is available:
- 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
Women’s Health Loddon Mallee stands alongside Layla’s family, friends and the Donald community in grief and solidarity during this time of deep loss. We remain committed to advancing gender equality and working alongside communities, partners and leaders to create a future where all women and girls are safe, respected, valued and free from violence.