Art has the power to challenge, heal, and inspire action. 

That’s exactly what Violence Prevention Australia (VPA) aims to achieve through its national art competition, which has brought artists together to explore themes of resilience, healing, and the urgent need for violence prevention. 

With the support of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM), the Stop it Before It Starts art competition ran from National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in May last year until Valentine’s Day 2025, and public voting for the People’s Choice Prize is open until 30 April. 

ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says healthcare professionals, particularly those in rural and remote communities, play a critical role in supporting people affected by violence. 

“Rural Generalists are often the first point of contact for people experiencing violence.  

“They don’t just provide medical care—they are advocates, trusted confidants, and a lifeline for those in need.” ACRRM is proud to support this initiative and highlight the role of healthcare in prevention,” Dr Martin says. 

VPA Director Dr Bill Liley says the competition is a unique way to engage new voices in the fight against violence. 

“Art can communicate what words often cannot.  

“The pieces in this competition tell powerful stories of survival, strength, and hope—reminding us that prevention starts with awareness and action,” Dr Liley says. 

VPA works across multiple sectors—including general practice, women’s health, migrant and refugee services, education, government, and community wellbeing—to push the boundaries of violence prevention. The organisation focuses on anticipatory prevention, stopping violence before it starts, and provides training, resources, and professional support at all levels of society. 

With judging closing next week, ACRRM and VPA encourage all Australians to view and vote for their favourite artwork, helping to spread the message that violence prevention is everyone’s responsibility. 

Vote before Monday 30 April at violencepreventionaustralia.com/stop-it-before-it-starts-art-comp