Shame

Asta is a seasoned barrister visiting the outback who quickly asserts authority to challenge the town's misogyny. She uses legal acumen and fearless judgment to expose abuses and protect those harmed. Her confrontation with local power structures positions her as a catalyst for accountability and a protector for Lizzie.

Lizzie is a shaken but increasingly defiant girl who finds courage through Cadell's example. She embodies the vulnerable who suffer from male violence and community denial. With Cadell's support, she begins to question her father and the town's silence.

Tim is the local mechanic who welcomes Cadell and her bike repairs, revealing a pragmatic, helpful side. He navigates family tensions and shows hospitality to outsiders, bridging gaps in the community. His actions reflect a balance between skepticism and generosity in a small town.

Norma is Tim's short-tempered mother who organizes Cadell's stay and keeps the household running. She is practical and protective of family, yet entangled in the town's escalating conflicts. Her presence highlights how domestic life intersects with public turmoil.

The town sergeant who dismisses Cadell's concerns as trouble and protects the status quo. He embodies bureaucratic inertia and a willingness to overlook crimes for convenience. His stance epitomizes the corrupt or complacent authority the protagonists must confront.

Penny is the owner of a meat-processing factory who embodies the town's intimidation of women and women-centered challenges. She contributes to a hostile environment for Cadell and others who raise issues of abuse. Her role marks how powerful local enterprises can influence social norms.

Ross is a local figure aligned with the town's male power structure. He reinforces the social order that allows violence to persist while keeping a low profile when confronted with accountability. His stance mirrors the collective complicity present in Ginborak.