Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (09:55): Layla Jeffery was just 13 years old and lived in Donald, a small town in my electorate. She was described by her family as a gentle, quiet little girl who just loved life. Her friends said she was fiercely loyal and loved shopping and would even buy two of everything she liked so her best friend could wear it too. On 4 July Layla left home in the early hours of the morning, leaving a light on for when she returned. Her family left that light on, but she never came back. A few days later her remains were found in nearby bushland. Layla’s death is an individual tragedy, but it also demonstrates the femicide crisis that is worsening across our country. She is one of four women and girls killed across Australia in the very same week, each allegedly by a man who was known to them. This violence does not come from nowhere. It begins with attitudes and words. It begins with the acceptance of language that dehumanises and creates contempt. It begins when sexism and disrespect are accepted in our homes, in our communities, in our sporting clubs, in our workplaces. It is up to all of us to call it out, and it is up to governments that are not treating this crisis with the urgency, funding or resources it desperately deserves to finally step up for Layla and for every family fearful that they too may be one day waiting at home with the light on.