As the Northern Rivers prepares to mark the annual global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (November 25 to December 10), the Lismore and Northern Rivers community is invited to come together for a powerful evening of celebration and purpose at the annual Women Up North Gala, to be held this Saturday (8th of November) at the Lismore Workers Club. 

Hosted by Women Up North Housing Inc. (WUNH), the gala will raise critical funds for women, young people, and children experiencing and at risk of Domestic Violence and the Bugalma Bihyn Aboriginal Women’s Refuge, a culturally safe and trauma-informed space for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.

The 2024 Gala raised a very generous $70,000, so there are high expectations again in 2025.

The event comes at a time when domestic violence rates in regional NSW are rising at alarming levels. According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, domestic violence-related assaults have increased by up to 24% in some regional areas, with Northern NSW among the hardest hit. In the 12 months to June 2025, 11 children were killed in domestic violence incidents—the highest number in a decade [bocsar.nsw.gov.au].

“This is not just a gala—it’s a call to action,” said Jillian Knight-Smith, Executive Officer of Women Up North. “We are seeing more women and children in crisis than ever before. The community’s support is vital to ensure we can continue to provide safe housing and support services.”

The gala will feature live entertainment, guest speakers, dinner, raffles, and auctions—all in support of WUNH’s mission to provide safety, dignity, and hope to women across the region.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, 8th November 2025
• Venue: Lismore Workers Club
• Time: From 6:00 PM
• Tickets: Available by clicking here or by calling 02 6621 7730
• Dress Code: Formal / Glamorous
• Theme: Empowerment & Resilience

The gala also serves as a lead-in to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign running from 25 November to 10 December, which calls for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls. In NSW, the campaign is supported by local councils and organisations through events, education, and community engagement. 

“By attending the gala, you’re not only supporting a local cause—you’re joining a global movement,” Knight-Smith added. “Together, we can create a future where every woman and child is safe, respected, and free.”