A domestic violence advocate was "heartbroken" to hear the details of another woman being brutally murdered by her partner but was grateful justice was served.
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On Thursday, Petero Baleinapuka was found guilty of murdering his Woonona girlfriend Angela O'Donnell on New Year's Eve, 2019.
Women Illawarra Inc general manager Michelle Glasgow said it was horrific she was murdered.
"To hear another woman lost her life to family and domestic violence in such brutal circumstances is heartbreaking, especially to anyone working in the service," she said. "Our core work is trying to keep women safe.
"Hearing there was a conviction is always a positive because in domestic violence cases getting a conviction or outcome is not all that common."
Ms Glasgow said is was important for women who were suffering from coercive control, verbal, psychological, emotional or physical violence to know they were never alone.
"If women are feeling unsafe then it is important they reach out to our service, 1800 RESPECT, the police and they will be pointed in the right direction," she said.
"We will provide support, whether that is safety planning or advocacy with the police or court.
"Families and friends must be advocates for women's experience too and help to recognise the cycle.
"People need to understand the the old adage of, 'why doesn't she leave' is not that simple because women could be leaving their home, work and children.
"Often they are committed to the relationship and are in love, and have a lot on the line.
"We know that women are most at risk from violent assault, being killed or seriously injured when they try or decide to leave or after they have left the relationship.
"They need a support network and a safety plan."
Ms Glasgow said the community needed to stand against domestic violence because women's lives continued to be cut short.
"It is everyone's place to stand up and say we will not tolerate domestic violence," she said.
"If you know your daughter or friend is experience violence then get information. Be an ally and support her."
If you require support contact the RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
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