There is a big difference between arranged marriages
and forced marriages. By the sound of things this
young girl was being forced to do something against
her will and she did the right thing by seeking help.
Under Australian law that's simply not allowed.

She did the right thing - although it couldn't have
been easy going up against one's parents. Brave girl
indeed.

Lexi,
As I understan it in an arranged marriage either party can freely choose to go ahead or not. In a forced marriage one or both parties are threatened or coerced by violence or emotional blackmail.

There are no figures I can find here, but I have read that in the UK there are estimates of about 3000 forced marriages a year. I have also read that police were re-investigating some 1300 'balcony deaths' involving young females.

The Uk has a special Forced marriage unit to assist those both overseas and in UK. See link.

http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/when-things-go-wrong/forced-marriage/

With our ever increasing immigration from countries that may be culturally involved, perhaps we need such a unit here. Help would need to be widely publicised so that those likely would be aware that help is available. Also that school and community social workers are aware.

Dear Banjo,

Thanks for the links.

I wasn't aware that the problem of forced marriages
was so common here in Australia. I knew that arranged
marriages were fairly common, but as you acknowledged
that's a different kettle of fish. Your suggestion of
having similar units here sounds like a good idea,
providing there's enough of a problem to warrant it.
Don't our laws protect people against forced marriages?
I thought they did.

lexi,
yes, forced marriages are against the law here, but the problem is that those likely to be in that position are not aware of where or who to approach for help. As you noted earlier a girl would be under immense pressure and I am sure only the extremely brave would contact someone who can give them advice. what is needed is publicity so the young know help is available

It is a bit like it is illegal to have FGM performed on a girl but we turn a blind eye, even though some hospitals in Sydney and Melbourne have specialist units to deal with post FGM problems. It is reported that FGM is increasing. We do not enforce the laws.

Just passing laws is of little use unless efforts are made to enforce them and the public is aware that we are serious.

I do intend contacting the NSW Minister for Community and Family Affairs, Pru Goward, in relation to this latest incident in the hope moves will be made to ensure there is more publicity given and it is aimed at the schools and communities where the matter is most likely.

I encourage others to do likewise.

Dear Banjo,

Well I've got to say I admire you putting
your money where your mouth is, so to speak.

Can't fault you on any of this.
Especially if you're going to be following
through on things.

Best of luck with Prue Howard.

Banjo did you pick black Berry's when you were young.
I remember it still taking that sheet of iron throwing it on the bush.
Got scratched a lot mum made the best pies.
Bit like that here, or any subject pointing out how wrong, how alien,some practices are.
I know, first hand, some forced weddings will take place no matter what our law says.
And that every chance exists.
This girl, will wed after weeks of great force, this man.
Banjo, in about 25 years, you ,we I will be long gone.
But our words will live on.
From deep within beliefs of a religion not shared by all, laws rules practices we are repelled by are taking place in our country.
I every single day of my life have DEMANDED equality for all women.
Have I the right? need I fear asking? I too believe in the right to practice ANY faith.
But that no God ever existed,need my country in the name of freedom bend to a faith any faith.
Can I think in matters like this with the same freedoms as those in support of a faith/myth?