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Real estate leader joins campaign against family violence

By Gemma Crotty
24 September 2025 | 8 minute read
stand up in sept top 8 reb mroxdp

A not-for-profit organisation has revealed its “Top 8” men from different industries who are taking a stand to address family violence, with a Victorian CEO pledging to lead the conversation in the real estate industry.

Marshall White CEO Simon Jovanovic has represented the real estate sector in an annual campaign to highlight leadership in addressing the issue of family violence.

As part of an annual campaign, Melbourne-based not-for-profit You Matter unveiled eight men from different industries who have pledged to assist in curbing family violence.

 
 

The Stand Up in September campaign launched at Hotel Collingwood, Melbourne, on 28 August.

The campaign runs throughout the month and seeks to engage men across Melbourne and create an ongoing conversation about the pressing issue.

Jovanovic, representing real estate, has pledged to make a difference by raising awareness and driving change as a father and as a leader.

“As a father – to my two girls and my boy – to raise them in a world of respect and equality,” he said.

“As a leader of a business – with 228 incredible women whose safety, voices and potential I will always protect and champion.

“As a leader of 141 men in our business – who will stand with me, listen with me and help create a culture where everyone is valued.”

The other industry representatives include Carlton Football Club CEO Brian Cook from the sporting industry, Bentleys Victoria’s Ray Short from the financial sector, and Lander & Rogers’ Mark Parker from the legal sector.

The launch of the campaign raised nearly $38,000, which surpassed the target of $35,000.

The funds will go directly to You Matter’s Havens of Hope program, transforming empty houses into safe homes for women and children recovering from family violence.

Each haven will be fully furnished with essential furniture, white goods, kitchen and laundry supplies, pantry basics and personalised touches.

The program is described as a vital lifeline helping families in Melbourne recover and rebuild their lives.

Tarang Chawla, whose sister Nikita was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 2015, was the keynote speaker at the event, delivering a powerful message.

“Men, let’s be part of the solution, not the problem,” he said.

According to Deborah de Rossi, CEO of You Matter, it’s a crucial time of the year to stand up and speak out.

September is a time that historically sees a rise in family violence incidents and increased reporting due to football finals being held.

“Every action counts – pledge, talk and give where you can,” de Rossi said.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Gemma moved from Melbourne to Sydney in 2021 to pursue a journalism career. She spent four years at Sky News, first as a digital producer working with online video content. She then became a digital reporter, writing for the website and fulfilling her passion for telling stories. She has a keen interest in learning about how the property market evolves and strategies for buying a home. She is also excited to hear from top agents about how they perfect their craft.
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