Why we need to stand against domestic violence
To commemorate White Ribbon Day, experts from the University reflect on why it is critical that we take a stand against domestic violence.
While the rate of domestic and family violence聽, the impact on survivors remains devastating. Ahead of聽, experts from the University of Sydney reflect on the effects of domestic violence and discuss why we need to take action.聽
Violence as a human rights abuse
鈥淰iolence against women is one of the most prevalent manifestations of human rights abuse in Australia according to the Australian Human Rights Council, with one in four women having experienced domestic violence,"said聽聽from the University鈥檚 Faculty of Education and Social Work.
"Death, disabilities, serious physical and psychological injuries and social disadvantage are often the results.
鈥淭丑别 (DVDRT) found that 204 people died from intimate partner violence over a 14-year period, with the vast majority of victims being women who were killed by current or former male partners.
鈥淎s expected, the DVDRT report contains recommendations aimed at legislators, policymakers, and practitioners but the report also highlights the crucial role that family and friends can play. This role includes supporting and believing survivors of domestic violence and holding those who perpetrate domestic violence to account. Preventing domestic violence is everybody鈥檚 business and that begins with becoming domestic violence informed.
鈥淭his includes the understanding that domestic violence is not a 鈥榣over鈥檚 spat鈥�, or a mutual 鈥榪uarrel鈥�. Instead, it occurs when one person chooses to exert power over another through a pattern of coercive control, which is embedded within systems of inequality, the most substantial of which is gendered inequality."
鈥淲e can all take important steps to resist sexism in all its forms by calling out victim-blaming practices and advocating for the provision of accessible homicide prevention services like women鈥檚 refuges.鈥�
Domestic violence and workplaces
Research Affiliate from the University鈥檚 Women and Work Research Group,聽, highlights the importance of creating safe work environments that ensure support is available to those impacted by domestic violence.
鈥淢ost women who report domestic violence experiences are in paid employment. As a community, we need to reduce the impacts of domestic violence by supporting those affected to stay safe in their homes and in their jobs,鈥� she said. 聽
鈥淒omestic violence drives employees into casual and precarious work. A special duty of care needs to be extended to casual staff as a result.鈥�
鈥淭丑别 clear messages employers can聽give employees聽are that victims will be supported and their jobs are safe; that perpetrator behaviour will be managed and won鈥檛 be tolerated; and that co-workers need to respect confidentiality but also encourage聽disclosure to managers or HR.鈥�
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence and need help or support, please聽聽(1800 737 732).