Standing Together: Reflection on the “No More Empty Shoes” Vigil

Why “Empty Shoes”?

At this vigil, dozens — sometimes hundreds — of empty pairs of shoes were arranged throughout Martin Place. Each pair symbolised a life cut short; each named woman once carried hopes, dreams, relationships — stories now silenced. The names were read aloud, roses were placed beside the shoes and the weight of loss became heartbreakingly real.

A Call to Awareness and Action

At HiTalent, we believe in not only filling roles — but building communities grounded in dignity, safety and human respect. Attending the vigil reminded us just how urgent and necessary it is that we bring those values into every workplace.

Domestic and family violence affects individuals from every walk of life. And when workplaces — including social care services — stand with survivors and champions of change, we help bend the arc toward safety, empathy and empowerment.

What We Can Do

• Listen & recognise — A colleague might be going through hardship you know nothing about. Being aware can make a world of difference.

• Speak up — Silence often protects the abuser. We all have a role to challenge harmful attitudes and support those at risk.

• Support services & advocacy — Organisations and vigils like “No More Empty Shoes” point to systemic change and community support.

Our Commitment at HiTalent

As a Social-Care recruitment agency, we understand the profound impact of trauma and the value of genuine empathy. We commit ourselves to:

• Building a network of carers and support-workers who treat clients — including those impacted by domestic and family violence — with dignity, respect and compassion.

• Fostering workplaces where safety, understanding and openness are non-negotiable.

• Raising awareness among our partners and networks about the human impact of domestic violence.

Attending the vigil was a powerful reminder — grief shared becomes strength, memories become motivation, and a single pair of empty shoes can speak louder than any statistic.

If you’re reading this: thank you for caring. Thank you for remembering. And thank you for being part of the change.

— The HiTalent Team