Avivo’s response to family and domestic violence

Our commitment to doing more 

At Avivo, we believe every person has the right to live and work in safety. As an employer, we recognise our responsibility to create a culture where people feel supported, protected, and empowered, especially when facing family and domestic violence (FDV). 

This project is about more than policy. It’s about compassion, action and long-term change.  We’re working to build an organisation that listens without judgment, responds with care, and stands beside employees experiencing FDV, at any stage of their journey. 

Why this matters 

Family and domestic violence is a national crisis, affecting communities, families, and workplaces across Australia. Statistics show that: 

• 1 in 6 Australian women experience family and domestic violence 
• Aboriginal women and women with disability are disproportionately impacted 

With over 1,000 employees, most of whom are women from diverse backgrounds – Avivo is not immune. The workplace can be one of the few safe and stable places in someone’s life. That’s why how we respond, as an employer, matters. 

Learning through loss 

In late 2022, we tragically lost our colleague Lynn Cannon, who was murdered by her ex-husband. Lynn’s death shook our organisation and prompted a deep and urgent reflection on how we support employees who may be living with abuse or control. 

Her loss is not just a reminder of what’s at stake, it’s a call to action. 

This work is dedicated to Lynn and to everyone who has experienced or been affected by family and domestic violence. 

What we’re doing

We’ve committed to reviewing and reshaping our role as an employer. Through this project, we’ve:

• Listened to those with lived experience to better understand the barriers employees face when seeking support
• Reviewed our systems and practices to identify where unintentional obstacles may exist
• Increased internal capability through training, clear processes and trauma-informed approaches
• Strengthened crisis response so employees can access support safely, confidentially, and without fear

Our goal is to become a workplace where every team member knows they will be believed, supported, and never judged.

View FDV Report

A voice for change 

In recognition of Family and Domestic Violence Prevention Month, our CEO Kate Fulton and Jacqui Darley, Lynn’s sister, spoke with ABC Radio’s Nadia Mitsopoulos about the impact of FDV and how Avivo is working to lead with care and courage. 

Their conversation is powerful, honest, and emotional. 

_{We acknowledge this content may be distressing. If you need support, please reach out to your local support services or speak with someone you trust.} 

Ongoing work, deep respect 

This project is not a one-time initiative. It is a continuing journey to ensure every employee—now and in the future—can count on Avivo to be a safe, understanding and responsive place to work. 

We will continue to listen, to learn, and to stand with those affected by family and domestic violence. 

Useful numbers  

• In an emergency please call 000.  
• 1800RESPECT  1800 737 732   
• 1800RESPECT Text line  
• Text ‘HELLO’ or a greeting to 0458737732  
• Lifeline 13 11 14      
• Crisis Care 1800 199 008    
• Rural Link 1800 552 002   
• Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline 1800 007 339   
• Mensline Aust 1300 789 978    
• Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline 1800 000 599    
• 1300YARN 13 92 76  
• Support run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people