This week, in just 24 hours, the lives of three women violently ended. Two of those lives were lost following alleged domestic violence incidents. The third life was lost in an alleged drive-by shooting.
Louise Hunt, a domestic violence advocate, died after her family home went up in flames. Her two children were also at home at the time, but were found safe and well, police confirmed. Her husband, Cameron Hunt, has been charged with the domestic violence murder of his wife and arson of the home.
Claire Austin died from her injuries after she ran through a glass door, in a desperate attempt to flee an alleged domestic violence incident. Following the incident, police applied for an apprehended violence order on behalf of Austin, The Herald reports. The application was due to be heard in Waverley Local Court on Wednesday.
Kim Duncan was in the supposed safety of her own home when it was sprayed with bullets. The mother and grandmother died at the scene.
So far, in 2025, 19 women have been murdered. During this time, five children have also been murdered.
Most of these murders were the result of intimate partner or domestic violence. Almost all were perpetrated by men known to their victims. Four were caused by stranger violence.
We’re on the same horrifying trajectory as last year, a year which saw 101 women and 16 children killed. And yet, the silence from our leaders is deafening.
Silence, despite a looming federal election.
Last night, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader, Peter Dutton, took part in a second leaders’ debate. The first debate was held on April 8.
Housing was discussed. The economy. Climate change. Immigration. They even sparred over international diplomacy. But domestic and family violence? Not a word. Men’s violence against women generally? Nothing.
Source: 3 women dead in 24 hours, yet leaders remain silent.