Domestic Violence

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence refers to a pattern of abusive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship that is used to gain power and control over another person. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, and social abuse. Domestic violence affects people of all genders, ages, and cultural backgrounds, though women and children are often disproportionately affected.

Domestic violence is a serious crime and a violation of human rights. It can occur in relationships between partners, spouses, ex-partners, parents and children, or even in caregiver situations. The impact of domestic violence is wide-ranging, affecting the physical and mental health of victims, and can have long-term consequences for their emotional well-being, safety, and quality of life.

Types of domestic violence

Domestic violence can manifest in various forms.

Some of the key types include:

• Physical abuse: This includes any form of physical violence, such as hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, choking, or using weapons to cause harm. It may also involve throwing objects or other behaviours intended to intimidate or harm the victim.
• Emotional and psychological abuse: This type of abuse involves controlling, manipulating, or belittling the victim. It may include verbal insults, threats, humiliation, isolation from friends and family, or undermining the victim’s self-esteem and confidence.
• Sexual abuse: This includes any form of non-consensual sexual activity, ranging from sexual assault to coercive or manipulative sexual behaviour. It can involve physical force, threats, or manipulation, and is a clear violation of the victim’s rights.
• Financial abuse: This occurs when an abuser controls the victim’s financial resources, limiting their ability to work, access money, or make independent financial decisions. Financial abuse can include controlling how the victim spends money, preventing them from accessing bank accounts, or withholding financial support for basic needs like food or shelter.
• Social abuse: Abusers may attempt to isolate the victim from their social networks, including family, friends, and community. This might involve controlling who they see, where they go, or preventing them from participating in social or recreational activities.
• Technology-facilitated abuse: This involves the use of technology to control or harm a partner. It can include tracking someone's phone or online activity, sending threatening or harassing messages, or sharing private photos or information without consent.

Signs of domestic violence

Recognising the signs of domestic violence is critical, both for victims who may need help and for those who are concerned about someone they know.

Signs of domestic violence can be difficult to identify, especially in the early stages, but some common indicators include:

• Physical signs of injury: Unexplained bruises, cuts, or other injuries, especially if the person seems to cover them up or make excuses. Victims may frequently appear withdrawn or anxious about others noticing their injuries.
• Isolation from friends and family: The person may withdraw from social circles or stop participating in activities they once enjoyed. The abuser may actively isolate them, making it difficult for them to maintain relationships outside the home.
• Changes in behaviour or mood: The victim may appear fearful, anxious, or depressed, or show signs of stress or trauma. They may become excessively apologetic or fearful of angering their partner.
• Financial difficulties or dependence: Victims of financial abuse may have limited access to money or struggle to meet basic needs, such as food, clothing, or housing, due to the abuser’s control over finances.
• Fear of the abuser: The victim may express fear of their partner, either because of their temper, behaviour, or threats. They may also avoid speaking about their partner or make excuses for their actions.
• Signs of emotional or psychological distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks or nightmares, are common among those who experience domestic violence.

The impact of domestic violence

Domestic violence can have far-reaching effects on victims, families, and communities. The impact is not just physical but emotional, psychological, and social.

Some of the consequences include:

• Physical injuries: Victims of domestic violence may suffer from injuries ranging from bruises and cuts to broken bones, internal injuries, or life-threatening conditions. The physical consequences can be long-lasting, sometimes resulting in permanent disabilities.
• Mental health issues: Survivors of domestic violence often experience emotional and psychological trauma, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), low self-esteem, and self-harm. The trauma can persist long after the abuse ends, affecting relationships and the ability to trust others.
• Children’s well-being: Children who are exposed to domestic violence may suffer from developmental delays, emotional and behavioural issues, and problems with school performance. They may also be at higher risk of becoming victims or perpetrators of abuse later in life.
• Social and financial consequences: Victims of domestic violence may face difficulties in their social and professional lives. Isolation, fear, and financial dependence on an abuser can prevent them from accessing support services, finding employment, or achieving financial independence.
• Cycle of abuse: In many cases, domestic violence is a cycle that repeats itself. Victims may find themselves trapped in an ongoing cycle of abuse, where they experience periods of calm and reconciliation followed by renewed violence or threats. This cycle can make it hard for victims to leave the relationship and seek help.

How to get help

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it is essential to seek help as soon as possible.

Domestic violence is never acceptable, and there are support services available to assist victims in regaining safety and control over their lives.

• Contact support services: There are many organisations in Australia that offer confidential support, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline (13 11 14). These services provide counselling, advice, and assistance in finding safe accommodation or legal support.
• Speak to a trusted person: Reach out to someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, or healthcare provider. You don’t have to go through this alone.
• Seek legal advice: In many cases, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. This may include seeking an intervention order (restraining order), which can protect you from further violence. Legal professionals or domestic violence services can guide you through this process.
• Safety planning: If you are in immediate danger, try to find a safe place away from the abuser. This could be a friend or family member’s house or a public space. Consider creating a safety plan, which may include having an emergency bag ready or knowing where to go for shelter.
• Therapy and counselling: Trauma-informed therapy can help survivors of domestic violence process their experiences, regain their sense of self-worth, and develop strategies to rebuild their lives. Therapy can be provided individually, in groups, or through specialised domestic violence programs.

How we can help

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, we are here to help. Our services provide confidential support, including crisis counselling and safety planning. We work closely with local organisations to ensure that those affected by domestic violence receive the necessary care and resources to recover and rebuild their lives. Whether you are seeking immediate assistance or long-term support, we are here to listen, provide guidance, and help you take the next steps toward safety and healing. You deserve to live a life free from violence.