Lisa Harnum Day 2026 News Update:
ANNOUNCEMENT: NEW SAFEROOM IN RYDE
As we approach the 15th anniversary of Lisa Harnum’s tragic death, this announcement carries even greater significance.
Fifteen years ago, Lisa’s life was taken through domestic violence. Today, her legacy continues to inspire action, bringing together government, community organisations, businesses and local leaders committed to ensuring more people can find safety, support and hope.
Today, we are proud to announce the Safe Room pilot initiative in the Ryde District, a practical, life-changing initiative that will provide a secure and private space where people experiencing domestic and family violence can access support services, make important calls, and plan their next safe step.
This milestone has only been possible because of the incredible collaboration across our community.
Our heartfelt thanks go to the Macquarie Park Ryde Business Chamber, whose International Women’s Day fundraising event played a pivotal role in helping bring this vision to life. Thank you for championing this initiative and for mobilising the local business community around such an important cause.
We also sincerely acknowledge our valued contributing partners:
• Rotary Club of Ryde
• City of Ryde
• RAWCS – Rotary Australia World Community Service
• The Northern Centre
Together with the Foundation, your leadership and commitment demonstrate what is possible when organisations unite around a common purpose.
To every community leader, business owner, sponsor, donor, volunteer and individual who has contributed, thank you. Whether you donated, advocated, partnered with us or simply believed in this vision, you have helped turn compassion into action.
The Safe Room is more than a physical space.- to represents hope for someone who feels trapped.
💜It offers dignity when it is needed most.
It reminds us that no one should face domestic violence alone.
As we remember Lisa 15 years on, we honour her not only with our words, but through meaningful action that will help protect and support others.
Together, we are building a safer community. Together, we are creating a legacy that saves lives.
Because every person deserves to feel safe.
Unveiling of the Memorial Bench in Hyde Park
On 29th July, on the 15th anniversary of Lisa Harnum’s death, we unveiled this memorial bench in Hyde Park, Sydney, in her honour.
Lisa’s life was tragically taken through domestic violence, but her story continues to inspire a movement that says enough is enough.
This bench is more than timber and bronze. It is a permanent reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a future that mattered.
We hope that everyone who pauses here will take a moment to reflect on the devastating impact of domestic and family violence—and the role each of us can play in creating a safer community.
As the plaque reads:
“In their hour of darkness, be a light of hope.”
May this place encourage conversations, inspire courage, and remind those experiencing abuse that they are not alone. There is hope. There is help. There is a community that stands with you.
The Lisa Harnum Foundation remains committed to raising awareness, supporting victim-survivors, and working towards a future where every person can live free from fear.
A sincere thank you to the City of Sydney for supporting this lasting tribute, and to TPG Group, whose generous sponsorship made the memorial plaque possible. Together, we honour Lisa’s memory by continuing the fight to end domestic and family violence.
May her legacy continue to be a light of hope for generations to come.
- to represents hope for someone who feels trapped.
