More than 500 people have marched in silence through the streets of Perth on Friday to protest against domestic violence towards women.
The rally, organised by the Women's Council for Domestic and Family Violence Services ahead of White Ribbon Day on November 25, highlights the devastating impact domestic violence has on families.
Cindy harrowing tale of domestic violence reduced many in the crowd to tears.
"Domestic violence is a silent terror that effects many women, children and men," she said.
"Domestic violence comes in many forms.
"My experience of domestic violence began over 20 years, which escalated into arguments that became violent.
"Bruises became harder to cover up, so you stay away from people until they start to fade."
Cindy said the ongoing violence shattered her self-esteem and left her feeling isolated and alone.
"These leads to isolation because of the embarrassment and trying to avoid the questions," she said.
"You find you can't confine in anyone because your secret will get out."
Child Protection Minister Helen Morton said it was unacceptable families had to experience domestic violence.
She said between 2012 and 2013, WA police received 46,874 reports of domestic violence.
"Tragically, it is estimated that up to 37,500 children witnessed this violence," she said.
"It is heartbreaking so many people and their children cannot live without fear of violence.
"Everyone needs to speak out and challenge the use of family and domestic violence.
"It does need people like us to stand up and make our voice loud and clear for those people, and let them know it is an unacceptable form of violence and needs to be stamped out."
Greens MLC Lynn MacLaren said domestic violence was a critical problem
"It's a very heavy day, but it's a very important day," she told Fairfax Media.
"It needs addressing and the state government can do more about.
"I think all my fellow parliamentarians need to work harder to ensure it doesn't keep happening."
