Riverina MP Michael McCormack, Wagga MP Joe McGirr as well as representatives from Riverina Police District, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Women’s Health Centre and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network have joined the committee.

Council community director Janice Summerhayes said 'The DVProject:2650' would involve "key influencers in the community".

"We need key ambassadors to take messages out into the community over the next three years," she said.

"Whilst we have serious rates of domestic violence, well above the state average, there needs to be extensive resources in response.

"This project is taking a preventative focus to look at the key drivers and attitudes and the way we relate to each others...and how we can change those behaviors and attitudes that do end up in family violence statistics in the community."

According to the council, Wagga’s domestic violence rates sitting around 29 per cent higher than the NSW average.

The steering committee met on Thursday to discuss as "grassroots project to promote respect and equity" as a means of approaching the issue.

The project's aims are to "highlight the link between inequity, disrespect and domestic violence" "change community norms, attitudes and behaviours towards women through the council’s Equity and Respect Team".

Dr McGirr, who attended the committee meeting, said it was better to invest in prevention rather than just respond to the circumstances left behind by violence.

"Sadly, we know that domestic and family violence is a national issue," he said.

"Many people thought that we had solved this issue but it is clearly a significant issue.

"More than one woman a week is killed as a result of domestic and family violence and our region and our city is not exempt from that.

"What is exciting about this project is there's a chance to try and prevent it happening in the first place."

Dr McGirr said involvement with sports would provide an opportunity to make a difference with education.

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