Many have a huge and valuable impact on society in raising both awareness and funds. Such special occasions include Red Nose Day with a focus on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Movember for men's health. And today is set aside for another important awareness campaign on a topic that has been swept under the carpet or hidden behind closed doors for way too long.

Today is White Ribbon Day. Today is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence, educating people in the community about the services and support available to those affected by domestic violence and empowering people who are victims of domestic violence.

It was first created in 1991 by a handful of Canadian men on the second anniversary of one man's massacre of 14 women in Montreal. They started to campaign to urge men to speak out against violence against women. The campaign first made its mark in Australia in 2003 when 10,000 ribbons were distributed across the nation.

There are now 1000 White Ribbon Ambassadors Australia-wide. Although, even in 2003, domestic violence was not a new problem in our society the White Ribbon campaign brought the issue into the limelight.

The day now provides a beacon of hope for those who previously suffered in fear and silence. It heralds the fact that these people are surrounded by friends, family, neighbours and work colleagues who are well aware of the incidence and impact of domestic violence. And this ultimately empowers those who are in an abusive environment.

While White Ribbon Day targets the problem of violence against women by men, it is important not to dismiss the fact that men too can be victims of domestic violence. In fact, according to NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, one in three victims of family violence are men.

So today and for every other day moving forward, embrace this year's White Ribbon Day message "Stand up speak out".

Domestic violence is never acceptable.