Rugby league’s crucial role in building respectful relationships has been reinforced as the world unites to end violence against women and girls. 

November 25 marks the start of 16 days of global activism as part of the United Nations’ UNITE to End Violence Against Women campaign. 

The movement will begin on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and will wrap up on December 10, Human Rights Day. 

The campaign marks an opportunity for organisations to reflect on the important work completed in this space throughout the year while turning their focus to building on that work in 2026.

Building respectful relationships forms a key pillar of the NRL’s community program, with the Voice Against Violence initiative a leading domestic violence prevention program.


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Power for Change – Introducing Frank Winterstein

Since its inception in 2015, more than 13,000 participants have engaged in the Voice Against Violence program. The workshops empower young people, rugby league players, coaches and administrators to stand up, speak out and take action against violence in their communities. 

Across 2025, the NRL has completed 144 workshops throughout Australia and the Pacific, reaching 5468 participants in 112 schools and clubs.

Voice Against Violence uses the language of rugby league to provide real-world examples and equip participants with the skills required to handle challenging situations within relationships. 

The Leichhardt Wanderers hosted a session earlier this year and Under 18 captain Amram Paita-Pepo said the program provided important lessons during a crucial phase of life.

“Using footy as a way to deliver the message and get us more involved rather than just sitting down and listening was a really good tool,” Paita-Pepo said.

“The statistics shocked a lot of people. Violence that isn’t really spoken about really came to light.

“We learned that not speaking about issues won’t help resolve them. We learnt how to identify some of those issues and a way to talk about it if you do find yourself in those positions.”

The Voice Against Violence program is set to continue in 2026 as NRL community staff use the power of rugby league to facilitate positive social change. 

Participating schools have reported an improved culture, while clubs have noted strengthened behaviour standards and students are more confident speaking up.

Click here for more information about the NRL’s Voice Against Violence program.