Australians march in solidarity against domestic violence

Thousands of Australians are walking in solidarity on Wednesday to raise awareness against domestic violence.

Marches around Australia are being conducted in support of White Ribbon Day, the day where the "epidemic" of domestic violence is brought out behind closed doors.

"Domestic violence is a unique crime in that everyone owns it," said New South Wales police commissioner Andrew Scipione at the march in Sydney's eastern suburbs on Wednesday.

"It's everybody's business. It's evidenced by the people here stepping out, particularly men - today of all days is the day when we stand up and say it won't be tolerated. It is not acceptable. There is no excuse," he told Australia's national broadcaster.

Men at the marches were asked to pledge an oath saying they would speak out against domestic violence and protect women in an epidemic that's been described as a "national disgrace" by Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

The epidemic that kills at least one woman each week was dragged onto the national agenda by victim, domestic violence campaigner and Australian of the Year Rosie Batty.

Batty's son Luke, 11, died at the hand of his father who was subject of a police control order and had a history of mental illness in front of horrified onlookers while at a junior cricket training session in early 2014.

Turnbull told reporters at a White Ribbon Day event in Canberra that a significant cultural change in Australia is needed.

"That is absolutely critically important. We can genuinely change the culture," Turnbull said.

"The answer lies within all of us men to make this change.

"We have to lead by example and the most important place to lead by example is with our children and our grandchildren."

Research released in conjunction with White Ribbon Day found 75 percent of Australia's youth know domestic violence is common, however are unsure what constitutes a "normal" level of conflict in a relationship.

Domestic violence campaigners say the lack of education around the issue makes it hard for people to understand what is considered normal.

Walks and signs of solidarity are continuing around the country. Enditem