Domestic violence is not just about bruises or black eyes. It’s a pattern of abusive behaviour used by one partner to control another in intimate relationships.
In Australia, domestic violence can take many forms – physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, and increasingly, coercive control.
It’s a silent crisis that affects thousands of Australians each year, and recent statistics show an alarming rise.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 1 in 6 women and 1 in 16 men have experienced physical or sexual violence by a current or former partner.
Even more concerning – more than 80 women are killed annually in domestic and family violence-related incidents.
Yet many Australians still don’t know the full picture. For instance, you probably didn’t know Fact #5 is one of the biggest reasons people stay in abusive relationships.
In this article, we’ll explore seven essential facts everyone should know in 2025.
Fact 1: Domestic Violence Goes Beyond Bruises
When people hear “domestic violence,” they often think of physical assault. But the reality is broader and more insidious. Abuse can take many forms, including:
- Emotional abuse – belittling, gaslighting, intimidation
- Financial abuse – controlling access to money or employment
- Psychological abuse – threats, isolation, coercive control
- Technological abuse – tracking devices, online stalking
Coercive control – a pattern of behaviours meant to isolate, manipulate, and dominate the victim – is now being criminalised in states like NSW and Queensland, highlighting how the law is catching up to this reality.
Many victims don’t recognise these signs at first, or they downplay them due to shame, love, or fear. As a result, abuse often goes unreported.
Fact 2: 1 in 6 Women and 1 in 16 Men Are Victims
Recent ABS statistics indicate:
- 1 in 6 women (17%) have experienced physical or sexual violence by a partner
- 1 in 4 women have experienced emotional abuse by a partner
- 1 in 16 men report similar experiences
But these numbers likely understate the true scale.
Experts believe domestic violence is significantly underreported, particularly among men, LGBTQ+ individuals, First Nations people, and migrants.
Stigma, fear of retaliation, and lack of access to culturally appropriate services make it even harder for some groups to speak up.
Fact 3: There’s a $5,000 Government Payment Available
In a bid to help victims escape abusive situations, Services Australia offers the Escaping Violence Payment (EVP) of up to $5,000. This includes:
- $1,500 in cash for essentials (food, rent, travel)
- $3,500 in goods and services (furniture, security upgrades, relocation support)
Who qualifies?
Victims must:
- Be over 18
- Have experienced intimate partner violence
- Be willing to engage with a support worker
You do not need to have reported the abuse to the police.
To apply, contact UnitingCare’s EVP program directly or visit the Services Australia website.
This financial support can make a critical difference, especially for victims who stay in abusive relationships due to financial dependence.
Fact 4: Legal Protection Is Available
Victims have legal rights – but not everyone knows how to access them. Here’s what’s available:
Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs)
An AVO (or IVO/FVRO in other states) is a court order designed to protect victims from further harm.
It can restrict contact, mandate distance, or remove an abuser from a shared home.
Legal Aid
Legal Aid Commissions in each state provide free or low-cost legal advice to victims of domestic and family violence. Services include:
- Help applying for AVOs
- Family law and child custody support
- Assistance with immigration issues for migrants
Housing & Family Rights
In some cases, victims may:
- Remain in the home while the abuser is removed
- Access priority public housing
- Apply for child custody changes to protect children
Fact 5: Many Victims Stay Due to Financial Abuse
Why don’t they just leave?
One of the biggest reasons is financial abuse. In abusive relationships, victims often:
- Have no access to money or bank accounts
- Are prevented from working
- Are forced to sign over assets or loans
This leads to a total dependency on the abuser – making escape feel impossible.
According to ANROWS (Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety), financial abuse is present in at least 80% of all domestic violence cases.
Programs like Good Shepherd’s financial counselling and Services Australia’s payment schemes aim to break this cycle – but awareness is still low.
Fact 6: Reporting Has Increased – But Stigma Remains
The good news? Reporting is on the rise.
Between 2017 and 2023, reports to police and domestic violence helplines rose by over 12%, and the use of online support services spiked during COVID lockdowns.
But despite these gains, stigma and fear remain powerful barriers:
- Fear of not being believed
- Fear of retaliation or losing custody
- Shame and guilt
- Lack of trust in police or legal systems
This is especially true in rural and migrant communities, where support services may be lacking or culturally inappropriate.
Fact 7: Help Is Available Right Now
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support is available 24/7:
Emergency Support
- 000 – Call immediately in life-threatening situations
- 1800RESPECT – 24/7 national counselling service (1800 737 732)
- DVConnect (QLD) – 1800 811 811 (women), 1800 600 636 (men)
- Men’s Referral Service – 1300 766 491 (for men using violence)
Legal & Housing Help
- Legal Aid NSW/VIC/QLD – Free legal advice
- Services Australia – Escaping Violence Payment, Centrelink
- Ask Izzy – Online directory for shelters, food, and support
You are not alone. Thousands of Australians access these services every year and rebuild their lives with support and dignity.
Conclusion
Domestic violence in Australia is a complex issue that goes far beyond physical harm. The facts are alarming
From the widespread underreporting to the silent epidemic of financial abuse, to the legal and support systems that victims may not know how to access.
Here’s what we’ve learned:
- Domestic violence includes emotional and financial abuse
- 1 in 6 women and 1 in 16 men are victims
- There’s up to $5,000 in government help
- Legal protections like AVOs and legal aid are available
- Financial abuse traps many victims
- Reporting is rising, but stigma still exists
- Help is available right now – you’re not alone
If you or someone you know is facing abuse, please seek help. And if you found this article useful, share it – you could save a life.
FAQs
1. How often is domestic violence reported in Australia?
On average, one woman is killed every 10 days by a current or former partner in Australia.
2. Who are the most affected by domestic violence?
Women and children are the most affected, with 1 in 4 women experiencing emotional abuse by a partner.
3. What role does Indigenous status play in domestic violence rates?
Indigenous women are 32 times more likely to be hospitalized due to family violence than non-Indigenous women.
4. Does domestic violence only include physical abuse?
No. It also includes emotional, financial, sexual, and psychological abuse—all forms are harmful and illegal.
5. Are there national efforts to stop domestic violence?
Yes. The Australian government launched the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children (2022–2032), aiming for long-term prevention and support.