MP says ‘enough is enough’ as another man kills women (26 May 2024)
Curtin MP Kate Chaney has called Friday's Floreat murder-suicide a stark reminder that violence against women occurs in every community. The incident, which resulted in three fatalities on a typically quiet street, has shocked both local residents and those further afield.
Ms Chaney, whose electorate office is close to the crime scene, expressed her heartbreak over the sudden loss of two women's lives. She emphasised the normally safe and tight-knit nature of the community, highlighting the personal connections many have to the affected family and the area.
"It’s normally a very safe community and tight-knit, and so many people have a connection either to the family or to the street," Ms Chaney stated. "I’m absolutely heartbroken for the family who have lost their loved ones in this really violent way. It's a reminder that violence against women happens in every community, even right here in our backyard. Enough is enough."
Ms Chaney noted the exhaustion and fury felt by women in the community and across Australia over the recurring violence perpetrated by men. She reported speaking with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who extended his condolences and reiterated his commitment to addressing gendered violence. Ms Chaney stressed the need for increased support for frontline services, justice reform, and long-term cultural change to combat this issue.
"We must urgently address the broader underlying issue, that men have to stop thinking that violence is a way to solve problems," she said. "It's about a systemic change to how we think about violence."
Ms Chaney plans to have a condolence book in her office to allow the community to send messages to the Petelczyc family. Premier Roger Cook also offered his condolences, thanking first responders for their swift action and expressing his sorrow for the impacted family and friends.
Related article: Domestic violence services raise alarm after budget (17 May 2024)
