More than 50 businesses and services around the Taree area have volunteered display space for a community art project drawing attention to the impacts of domestic and family violence.

Community organisations have brought white t-shirts and paint to women and children living with or affected by domestic violence. The results are compelling slogans and art that speak out against the real harm of violence behind closed doors.

A t-shirt from a young mothers group tells "The scars you can't see are the hardest to heal".

A child's small t-shirt says "Don't hurt me! DV is BAD!!!".

There are more than 90 poignant t-shirt messages displayed, telling stories of suffering and courage; pleading for neighbours, friends, family, and community to speak up against domestic violence.

Artist Rebecca Cross has donated artworks for the "Dirty Laundry" displays which can be viewed in business windows along Manning, Victoria and Pulteney Streets, as well as at the Taree Library, Taree Community Health Centre, Wingham Neighbourhood Centre, Interrelate, iGym, Anytime Fitness, YMCA and Family and Community Services.

Violence against women and their children has been estimated to cost the Australian economy more than $13 billion per year. (From InPsych October 2015, Australian Psychological Society).

To learn more about domestic violence look online at www.dvrcv.org.au for information for victims and service providers, www.whiteribbon.org.au a site to encourage men speaking up to stop domestic violence, or www.theline.org.au a site to help young people 12 to 20, their parents, carers and teachers learn how to support others and draw the line on disrespectful attitudes and behaviours.

For local support, victims of violence can contact the police or the Police domestic violence liaison officer, Lachlan Gunn, the refuges for counselling or accommodation, Court Support Services at 6584 0053, Sexual Assault Services at 6592 9701, or call the NSW counselling and support line 1800Respect.

Reports of suspected domestic violence and safety concerns can be made to the emergency line 000, the police, or Family and Community Services.

For White Ribbon Day, on Wednesday, November 25, local service providers will have a display table at Taree Central shopping centre with information about how you can help stop domestic violence, and service directories to help children and adults living with domestic violence. The table will have free white ribbons, tattoos, lollies and friendly staff to have a yarn with.

Please stop by to show your support for changing fear and tears to hope and help.