Family violence affects not just the main victim but also others who are in close proximity to them. This frequently includes young children. Family violence is not only extremely upsetting for kids, but it can also become normalized in their thoughts if they witness it at a young age. Between 2004/2005 and 2011/2012, there was a concerning rise of over 83% in court-granted intervention orders and nearly 73% increase in domestic violence events recorded to the police in Victoria alone.
Family violence is frequently understood to include solely physical and sexual abuse. The courts and the general public are realizing more and more that it covers a lot more ground. It can take the form of financial abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, or actions intended to dominate, coerce, or subjugate a person. You may be in an abusive relationship if you are terrified of your partner and feel like you are “walking on eggshells.”
The more subdued types of domestic abuse frequently go unreported. It’s critical to realize that control is at the center of family violence. This can take the form of physical, mental, or financial control. It’s crucial to remember that actions like controlling someone’s wealth and depriving them of essentials are all considered forms of family violence.
Among those over 15, two out of every five Australians have suffered domestic violence. As a result, it’s critical to understand the warning signals of domestic abuse as well as the preventative and remedial measures that can be taken.
Proactive Measures
Read the Signs
The most crucial thing to remember is to recognize the warning indicators of domestic abuse. It’s likely that someone in your immediate circle may experience family violence at some point in their life, whether it’s you, a family member, or a friend. In the short and long terms, it can make a huge difference to recognize the signals and be able to help.
Speak up
It’s critical to act when you witness family violence in progress and to not write it off as a “one off” incident. There are numerous organizations that support victims of family violence, both men and women. Confidential, round-the-clock support services are offered by organizations like DV Connect and 1800 Respect to both those who are directly impacted by family violence and those who are worried about it. Speak with one of these services if you or someone you know is experiencing family violence.
Exchange Words ( Communicate )
It is imperative that you communicate if you believe that you or someone you know is involved in a violent relationship. Inform a trusted person about your circumstances or get in touch with a trained support service. Part of the control your abuser exercises over you is believing you have no choice but to remain silent.
Reactive Measures
Inform the police
You should get in touch with the police right away if the violent situation has gotten to the point where you are afraid for your safety. The police may file an application for an intervention order on your behalf if they have a legitimate fear for your safety. In the event that you have already been assaulted, the police will interview you and may choose to file charges.
Order of intervention
You can file an application on your own through your local Magistrates’ Court if a police intervention order is not granted. You only need to go to your local Magistrates’ Court, where a court employee with the necessary training can help you with your application. That’s the simple part of the process. Alternatively, you could have the application prepared by a solicitor.
The abuser may be barred from contacting you temporarily with an interim order if the court determines that you require immediate protection. After that, the court will review the application for an intervention order and determine (later on) whether to issue the order and how long it will last.
Report any violations
You must make sure that any violation of an intervention order is reported to the police right away in order for it to be effective. A major criminal offense that can result in imprisonment in certain cases is the violation of an order.
