The Indian physiotherapy student who died after a vicious sexual attack, has inspired the Greek Australian CEO of the Australian Physiotherapy Association to take action.
CEO Cris Massis along with the Association has raised $3,500 for the UN women anti-violence campaign.
Mr Massis said it was the first time the organisation had taken the initiative to support such a worthy cause.
Other than raising funds for the UN Women anti-violence campaign, the APA has put up anti-violence posters and created a dialogue with their patients on the issue.
Physiotherapy is a female-orientated industry, with women making up more than 70 per cent of the APA.
“Violence against women is one of the most widespread human rights abuses across the globe,” Mr Massis said.
“It affects women of all ages, races and cultures, overseas and in our own backyard.
“As a community, we want to take a stand and help stop this appalling cruelty.
The sum of money raised will not stop there, as the APA hopes to raise $10,000 for the cause.
World Confederation for Physical Therapy Asia Western Pacific Region chair Gillian Webb said the issue of violence against women was close to the hearts of physiotherapists.
“Not only was this young woman a dedicated physiotherapy student with a bright future ahead of her, but all too often physiotherapists are called to treat and rehabilitate the victims of violence and trauma,” she said in a statement
The death of the student has galvanized a country, where the issue of women’s rights has often been pushed under the rug.
Campaigners have called for tougher rape laws and reforms to the police, who critics say often fail to file charges against accused attackers.
International Women’s Day is on March 8.