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Today, women everywhere are saying #ThankYouRosieBatty.

 

We first met Rosie Batty in her darkest hours.

The British born mother had just lost her only son – 11-year-old Luke, who was brutally murdered by his violent and vindictive father at cricket training in suburban Melbourne.

To the shock of many, Rosie fronted up to the media and gave an impressive and eloquent address, warning the nation of the disturbing truth so desperately needing to be told.

“Family violence happens to everybody,” the devastated Batty said.

Rosie and Luke in happier times.

“No matter how nice your house is, how intelligent you are. It can happen to anyone, and everyone.”

She had suffered at the hands of her abusive ex, Greg, for years. And now he’d stolen the thing she prized above everything else – her son.

Rosie Batty spoke to Mia Freedman about adjusting to life without her beautiful boy. You can listen to the podcast here:

Since that distressing day in February 2014, Rosie has been an advocate and tireless campaigner for the women and children affected by domestic violence, turning her tragedy into the momentum needed to make a difference.

She established The Luke Batty Foundation later that year and became Australian of the Year in 2015.

Rosie Batty was the 2015 Australian of the Year.

She played a crucial role in establishing Victoria’s Royal Commission into Family Violence and shared the details of her painful story in her book, A Mother’s Story.

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Rosie has shaped public discourse around the scourge of family violence and its prevention – and today, as her reign as Australian of the Year nears its end, she is being honoured on social media for her commendable efforts to stand up for others against domestic violence.

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