Family and domestic violence can take many forms and may be damaging psychologically, emotionally and physically. While definitions of family and domestic violence vary, there is a general acceptance that it is an abuse of power by a partner, ex-partner or family member. It can take many forms including social isolation, emotional, physical, sexual, religious and financial abuse.
Family and domestic violence is never acceptable. Defence is committed to creating a more supportive and responsive workplace and is actively engaged in the national response addressing this issue.
Defence strives to provide considered and comprehensive guidance to prevent and respond to family and domestic violence.
The Defence Strategy for Preventing and Responding to Family and Domestic Violence 2023–2028 sets out the Defence’s objectives, key areas of focus and principles, and aims to:
- facilitate and co-ordinate appropriate Defence responses to family and domestic violence experienced in the Defence community
- provide victim-survivors and those at risk of being subjected to family and domestic violence with appropriate supports including trauma-informed crisis intervention where required, safety planning and referral to specialised victim-centred services
- acknowledge that those involved in or accused of being involved in acts of family and domestic violence are responsible for their behaviour and appropriately intervene including through referral to appropriate specialised perpetrator services
- provide Defence personnel with the skills, knowledge and confidence to recognise, respond and refer people at risk of, subjected to and affected by family and domestic violence so as to respond effectively to their needs in accordance with Defence Values and Behaviours
- contribute to the broader community’s efforts in preventing family and domestic violence by promoting an understanding and awareness of family and domestic violence, particularly within a Defence context.