While domestic violence may not be quite as prevalent in Australia as it is in other countries, domestic violence has still been recognised as a major health concern.
There was a time when domestic violence was somewhat of a taboo topic, but now it is being brought to the forefront. A lot more educational resources are out there so that people can recognise domestic abuse and take steps to protect themselves if they find they are victims of it.
Domestic violence does not discriminate; it affects people of all races, genders, economic backgrounds, and levels of education. The sad truth is that it can happen to anyone.
As domestic violence lawyers in Sydney, we feel that it is our duty to spread awareness about domestic abuse. In this article, we’ll define domestic violence so that you can gain a deeper understanding of this term.
Defining Domestic Violence
In Australia, ‘domestic abuse’ and ‘domestic violence’ are often used interchangeably and can be assumed to mean the same thing. Studies show that the average Australian views domestic violence as physical violence between domestic partners (usually male and female partners), with the female partner usually being the victim. Domestic partners are usually assumed to be romantic partners, such as girlfriend and boyfriend or husband and wife. And while these assumptions are very often accurate in domestic violence cases, the term can mean a lot more than just this.
Domestic violence doesn’t always have to be physical. It can be emotional, social, sexual, verbal, or economic abuse. And domestic abuse does not always take place between romantic/ sexual partners. It could involve any relationship within the household, including the relationship between parents and children.
While men are most commonly the perpetrators of domestic abuse, women can also be abusive within their households and have men and children as their victims.
What Is ‘Domestic Violence’ Within The Sphere Of Australian Law?
Family violence is defined in section 4AB of the Family Law Act (1975).
Have you been a victim of domestic abuse? Here at Lapointe Family Law, we have a team of domestic violence lawyers that can help you fight your case. Please feel free to get in touch with our friendly, supportive and professional team today and we can talk you through our process.
