Judith Congrene doesn't remember how or when her husband became violent but said she was seven months pregnant the first time she feared he would hurt her.
More than 50,000 physical and sexual violence reports were made in Western Australia last financial year, the second highest rate in Australia, but that figure is estimated to represent only 20 per cent of attacks against women and children.
To raise community awareness of the issue and encourage victims to come forward, several of the state's most popular landmarks will be lit in orange as part of a 16-day campaign by the McGowan government.
Starting on White Ribbon Day on Saturday and ending on Human Rights Day on December 10, it follows the United Nation's 16 days of activism against gender-based violence campaign.
The 16 days will also highlight organisations and services available to victims of violence.
Resources in WA are overstretched, with the McGowan government pledging a $20 million package including two new women's refuges and a rehabilitation program for perpetrators.
Ms Congrene tearfully said having a safe refuge was essential for women's emotional and physical survival.
"That need for somewhere safe is something I will never forget," she said.
Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Simone McGurk said if there was more gender equity and respect for women in the community there would be less violence.
"Sexist and demeaning behaviour that gives license to violence against women needs to be called out and we all have a role to do that," Ms McGurk told reporters.
She said the conversation in homes and workplaces had to change.
Domestic violence survivor Mary Chetcuti said she thought it was normal as both her mother and grandmother had been victims of family violence.
She said it was important she re-write the narrative of violence for herself and her daughter.
"I am happy to report I am worthy of love, I am worthy of a safe home and I have the right to speak out and say when things aren't right."
She implored other women to reach out.
"You are really, really not alone."
National domestic violence helpline: 1800 737 732 or 1800RESPECT. In an emergency call triple-zero.
