Purple Friday - Clubs Say No To Domestic Violence

Orange Ex-Services' Club joins statewide club campaign against domestic violence.

Orange Ex-Services’ Club staff are wearing purple every Friday in May as part of a statewide initiative taking a stand against domestic and family violence.

“Purple Friday” is a grassroots movement that began in Ballina following a local tragedy that deeply impacted the community during an already difficult time.

The message is simple: wear purple on Fridays to show that violence has no place in our homes, workplaces or communities.

The campaign has continued to grow, gaining significant momentum in 2025 with the launch of ClubsNSW’s Clubs for Community - United Against Violence program, focused on education, advocacy and community connection.

This year, the Orange Ex-Services’ Club is one of more than 200 registered clubs across NSW participating in Purple Friday.

Orange Ex-Services' Club CEO Nathan Kelly said the initiative is about raising awareness, encouraging conversations and making support visible in places people already trust.

“Clubs are so much more than hospitality venues. They are trusted community hubs — places where people work, gather, connect and at times, seek safety. That gives us both a unique responsibility and an opportunity when it comes to preventing and responding to domestic and family violence,” Mr Kelly said.

“When you walk into our club on a Friday in May, you’ll see staff wearing purple shirts, hats and pins. Our team will also be available to provide helpful information and practical resources in a respectful and discreet way.

“Purple Friday is about raising awareness, starting conversations and making support visible within the community.”

Alongside staff wearing purple, the club will use each Friday throughout May to help promote awareness of support services including 1800RESPECT, StandbyU Foundation and Lifeline.

“For those who may not feel comfortable speaking directly with someone, there will also be digital screens, posters and signage throughout the club displaying support information, online resources and contact numbers for advice and assistance,” Mr Kelly said.

“Purple symbolises strength, courage and dignity. It represents the club industry’s commitment to breaking the silence around domestic violence and standing in solidarity with those affected. Raising awareness, educating our communities and providing support is something all of us can play a role in.”

Support Services

1800RESPECT

24/7 support for anyone affected by domestic, family or sexual violence.

• Call: 1800 737 732

• Text: 0458 737 732

• Website: 1800RESPECT

StandbyU Foundation

Australian not-for-profit social enterprise focused on helping people stay safe through innovative technology and human connection.

• Call: 1800 069 010 (then press 2)

• Email: info@standbyu.org.au

• Website: StandbyU Foundation

Lifeline

24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services for Australians in distress.

• Call: 13 11 14

• Text: 0477 13 11 14

• Website: Lifeline Australia