NICOLE KIDMAN STEPS UP FOR ANTI-ABUSE CENTRE

Nicole Kidman continued her crusade against domestic violence by speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of a new anti-abuse centre on Friday (08Jan10).

The Moulin Rouge! star, who is a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Fund for Women, was on hand at the launch of the Family Violence Prevention Fund's New International Center in San Francisco, California.

The centre will give assistance to women who have suffered sexual or physical abuse.

Nicole Kidman says, "There is no doubt that ending violence against women remains an urgent issue and belongs on centre stage. Soluti ons require action and investment, and strong partnerships like the one we're announcing today between UNIFEM and Family Violence Prevention Fund...

"We've been able to approach governments around the world and we've been able to say, 'We want you to acknowledge your laws, change your laws and to speak out strongly.'"

The star appeared before lawmakers at the Congress in October (09) to talk about violence against woman across the world, admitting that Hollywood "probably" played a role in contributing to acts of aggression.