Learn more about domestic and family violence (DFV) and seek support, whether that support is for you, a friend, a workmate or an employee.
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DFV is more than just physical violence.
It's when one person in a relationship uses violence or abuse to control the other person and is usually an ongoing pattern of behaviour aimed at controlling a partner through fear.
DFV occurs among people of all ages, education, cultural and racial groups, sexuality and socioeconomic status. It can occur between people in spousal, intimate personal, family or informal care relationships.
'While men can be victims, the majority of people who experience this kind of violence are women. In Australia, 1 in 6 women has experienced physical or sexual violence at the hands of a current or former partner and 1 in 16 men has experienced physical or sexual violence at the hands of a current or former partner.' (Personal Safety Survey, 2016)
Given how prevalent DFV is, it’s likely most people know someone—either in their community, sporting club, school or workplace—who has experienced abuse.
While most people will say they don’t condone DFV or other forms of violence, as long as we continue to excuse or minimise abuse, turn a blind eye or believe the victim is to blame, it will continue.
We can all play a role in changing the culture and attitudes that underpin DFV in our community.
