Lisa Wilkinson: ‘Women are afraid that men will kill them’

Lisa Wilkinson has broken down in tears as she revealed the fears she holds for her 20-year-old daughter Billi following the murder of young Melbourne woman Eurydice Dixon.

Dixon was allegedly raped and murdered in a Melbourne park on Tuesday night. Police have since arrested a 19-year-old man, but are yet to lay any charges against him. Following Dixon’s death, Victoria Police urged women to have “situational awareness” and be aware of personal security.

Read more: Karl fires up: ‘How many more women have to die?’

Wilkinson held back tears on Friday’s episode of The Project, as she called for a change in attitudes towards women’s safety. The former Today host slammed police and society in general for the blame-game that continues to put the burden of responsibility on to women.

“Every day, women are told how to behave, what to wear, and where to go for their safety, and I’m not sure we should be listening to every word of advice,” she said.

Fighting back tears, Wilkinson continued: “This might upset some people but, honestly, parents, instead of telling our girls not to walk through parks, maybe we should be telling our boys not to rape them,” she said, before citing the famous quote by Margaret Atwood: “Men are afraid that women will laugh at them. Women are afraid that men will kill them.”

Wilkinson admitted that she held fears for her university student daughter Billi if she was walking alone at night.

Fans hit social media to praise Wilkinson for her blunt but honest message. One user wrote: ” @Lisa_Wilkinson Your piece tonight moved me to tears. Every woman knows what it’s like to feel unsafe, when they are simply going about their business. The conversation must change.”

Another added: “An incredibly powerful statement from @Lisa_Wilkinson on behalf of all women hoping this violence will end.”

And a third wrote: “Bravo @Lisa_Wilkinson Brought tears to my eyes! It’s exactly what needed to be said. Enough is enough! It’s time the men change their behaviour and take responsibility for their behaviour! Stop blaming the women!”

But not all Twitter users agreed with Wilkinson’s powerful message, with one user adding: “I really believe you need to apologise to the good men who you insulted.”

What do you think? Do you agree with Wilkinson? Do you feel safe walking around your own city at night?