While there's no reports to suggest that the trend has started in Australia, the reality for victims of domestic violence remains the same.
On average, 1 woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner in Australia, according to the National Homicide Monitoring Program report. Almost 10 women a day are hospitalised for assault injuries perpetrated by a spouse or domestic partner, per the AIHW, and in 2019 alone 3600 women hospitalised for assault injuries identified a spouse or domestic partner as the perpetrator.
And while many of us have been adapting to life at home, that reality can present a serious challenge for those living with an abusive partner or family member.
Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows that stress, unemployment, a disability or health condition, poor or fair health, and low levels of life satisfaction are all significant factors for increased partner violence, almost all of which have hit Australians in a perfect storm since the global health crisis began.
Where To Reach Out For Help:
The National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line – 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for any Australian who’s experienced, or is at risk of domestic violence and/or sexual assault.
- Women’s & Girls’ Emergency Centre (WAGEC)
- Women's Community Shelters
- safe steps Family Violence Response Centre
- Women's Safety Services SA
- Darwin Aboriginal & Islander Women's Shelter (DAIWS)
Below, 24/7 services available statewide:
South Australia:
Domestic Violence and Aboriginal Family Violence Gateway Services (1800 800 098)
Western Australia:
Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline (1800 007 339)
Tasmania:
Safe at Home Family Violence Response and Referral Line (1800 633 937)
Queensland:
DVConnect Womensline (1800 811 811)
Northern Territory:
Catherine Booth House (8981 5928)
New South Wales:
NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 656 463 / TTY 1800 671 442)
ACT:
Domestic Violence Crisis Service (02 6280 0900)
Victoria:
Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre (1800 015 188)