Recognising and Responding to Family and Domestic Violence

Family and domestic violence is much wider than physical assault. This lesson explains the many forms it can take and the idea of coercive control. Key points: it can happen between partners, former partners, family members, carers and others in a family-like relationship; it includes physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, financial, technology facilitated and spiritual abuse; coercive control is a pattern of behaviour that takes away a person's freedom; it is never the victim's fault; and in some states, including New South Wales and Queensland, coercive control is now a criminal offence.

People with disability face higher rates of family and domestic violence, and some abuse is specific to disability. This lesson explains why. Key points: the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that people with disability are more likely to experience family, domestic and sexual violence than people without disability; abusers may withhold or damage mobility aids, communication devices or medication, control care, money or NDIS supports, or threaten to put the person in care; dependence on the abuser, communication barriers, isolation and not being believed all make it harder to seek help; and workers can make a real difference.

You may notice signs of family and domestic violence before anyone says a word. This lesson describes physical, emotional and situational signs, and signs in the behaviour of others in the home. Key points: look for unexplained injuries, missing aids or medication and changes in mood or behaviour; notice fear of a family member, a person never being left alone with you, or someone always answering for them; watch for money, food or basic care being withheld; signs are not proof, so record what you see factually; and never confront the person you suspect.

If someone tells you about violence, your response can shape whether they seek help again. This lesson explains how to respond safely and without judgement. Key points: find a private, safe moment; listen, believe and let the person lead; tell them it is not their fault; do not pressure them to leave or blame them for staying; be honest that you need to share information to keep them safe; do not promise secrecy; support their choices and safety; and use interpreters or communication supports, never the suspected abuser, to help them communicate.

Knowing who to call and how to report means you can act quickly and correctly. This lesson sets out the pathways. Key points: if anyone is in immediate danger, call 000; 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 is the free national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling service, available 24 hours a day; tell your team leader and complete an incident report; abuse of an NDIS participant is a reportable incident that must be notified to the NDIS Commission within 24 hours; and if a child may be at risk, follow our policy for reporting to your state or territory child protection service.

Hearing about or witnessing violence can affect you, and some workers are experiencing violence in their own lives. This lesson covers looking after yourself. Key points: strong feelings after a disclosure are normal; debrief with your team leader and use the support we offer; keep information confidential while getting support; stay safe on home visits and leave if you feel unsafe; 1800RESPECT can support you too; and if you are experiencing family and domestic violence, employees are entitled to 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave each year under the National Employment Standards.

This case study follows Sienna, a young woman with an intellectual disability who lives with her partner. Her support worker has noticed her partner checking her phone and controlling her money, and one day Sienna tells her what is happening at home. The lesson walks through how the worker listens and believes Sienna, is honest about needing to share the information, respects Sienna's choice to go home, and reports straight away so safety planning can start. Key points: listen and believe, never promise secrecy, respect choices and report promptly.

This case study follows Joyce, a woman living with multiple sclerosis whose adult son has moved into her home. Her support workers begin to notice cancelled shifts, missed medication collections and Joyce seeming withdrawn. One day her son refuses to let the worker in. The lesson explores how to respond safely without confronting anyone, why a pattern of signs matters, and how our team and other services work together to check on Joyce. Key points: keep yourself safe, never force entry, report straight away and call 000 if anyone is in immediate danger.