The violence prevention organization Our Watch has criticized a recently removed video featuring Australian boxer Benjamin Hussain, in which he made light of the increase in domestic violence incidents coinciding with the men’s State of Origin decider.
In the now-deleted Instagram post, Hussain, a professional welterweight from Queensland, stated, “Boys, in Queensland, domestic violence increases by 40 percent on Origin night, and Nathan Cleary’s performance is going to make it even worse. Hopefully, all your dogs and partners are wearing mouthguards when they go to sleep tonight. Let’s go, boys, the Blues are on.”
Patty Kinnersly, the CEO of Our Watch, an organization dedicated to preventing violence against women and children, emphasized that there is nothing humorous about violence against women. “Comments like this are unacceptable, especially in a year when 36 Australian women have been killed by men,” Kinnersly remarked to ABC Sport. “Studies indicate that the messages we encounter daily significantly shape our attitudes and behaviors. When domestic violence is trivialized or normalized through these so-called jokes, it contributes to a culture that minimizes or excuses abuse.”
Kinnersly highlighted the powerful role that sports can play in positively influencing societal norms. “It’s crucial for public figures and the sporting community to convey that violence against women is never acceptable, and that everyone has a responsibility to foster respect, equality, and healthy relationships.”
Research from La Trobe University indicates that men’s State of Origin nights see an average increase of 40 percent in domestic assaults. The study also revealed a 71 percent rise in non-domestic assaults during the weeks surrounding the State of Origin series. Similarly, domestic violence support services anticipate a surge in calls during AFL grand final weekends. Our Watch reports that Victoria Police expect a 20 percent rise in incidents of violence against women leading up to the AFL men’s decider.
Comparable research in England during the World Cup and in the United States during American football seasons shows similar trends in domestic violence spikes during significant sporting events.
The ABC has reached out to Hussain for his response to the backlash.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to the appropriate support services available, including the 1800 Respect national helpline and various state-specific crisis lines.
