As new data reveals the shocking domestic violence crisis statistics in NSW, an annual nine-kilometre walk can help change lives in the community. File picture

Sutherland Shire residents are being urged to lace up their walking shoes and rally together for an annual community event dedicated to raising crucial funds for victims of domestic and family violence.

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Scheduled for July 19, the nine-kilometre walk will kick off at Cronulla at 8am. In a visual demonstration of solidarity, participants are encouraged to wear white as a symbol of their support for ending violence against women.

New data released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and highlighted by Domestic Violence NSW paints a picture of the crisis. In the one year leading up to December 2025, 32 people lost their lives to domestic violence murder in NSW, including 14 adult women, 12 adult men, and six children. While this represents eight fewer victims than the spike recorded in 2024, Domestic Violence NSW warns that the state continues to log the highest number of women killed in a domestic context across the nation.

Physical domestic assault numbers remain at historically elevated levels. Reported domestic assaults have surged from 29,143 in 2016 to 37,828 in 2025. About 66 per cent of all domestic assault victims in NSW are female. Sexual assault reports in NSW have risen by 7.9 per cent over the past two years.

NSW Police recorded a record-high 25,393 offences related to domestic violence intimidation, stalking, and harassment, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 4.8 per cent in the past decade.

Advocacy groups are pointing to severe funding shortfalls as a root cause of the continuing crisis. Early 2026 sector reports reveal that women and children actively seeking support and fleeing dangerous situations are now facing average wait times of up to two months just to access critical case management and emergency housing services.

But hundreds more children and young people escaping domestic and family violence have received tailored support following the Minns Labor Government's expansion of the Specialist Workers for Children and Young People program. Commencing as a pilot in 2022, a $48.1 million investment by the government has enabled the program to expand to support about 1800 children and young people across 80 local government areas - the majority of which are in regional and rural areas. Since the program began, more than 5400 children and young people and their families have benefited from this initiative.

Details of the walk can be found on the official event page. Walkers have the chance to win restaurant meals and a trip to Bali, with the event being sponsored by 1st Street Home Loans and Affinity AirConditioning.