ANROWS’ Post

Congratulations to ANROWS and authors Sophie Gillfeather-Spetere and Amy Watson on the publication ‘Action not just words’ - a call by ANROWS and young victim-survivors for policy overhaul for children’s safety from domestic, family and sexual violence. The guide consolidates insights from over 20 research reports and 130 policy recommendations, providing a clear roadmap for policymakers, practice leaders and advocates to deliver targeted support and protection for children and young people as victims and survivors in their own right. It's great to see reports and publications from a wide ranges of sources, including papers from the ground-breaking Australian Child Maltreatment Study (#ACMS) on prevalence of maltreatment, associations within multi-type maltreatment; and the prevalence of diverse genders and sexualities in Australia, a paper led by Daryl Higgins. We are so pleased that some of our other work, in partnership with ANROWS and other organisations, has informed practice insights: - Doing Good Business: A resource for Researchers about Conducting Research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children about Family Violence. - Connect the Dots: Practice Framework - Protective participation: The Voices of Young People on Safety, led by A/Prof Tim Moore. Our research for the Australian Government Department of Social Services examined service system responses to children and young people in the statutory child protection system who have experienced or witnessed family violence [https://lnkd.in/gbzwExE2]. This led to a collaboration with ANROWS and Queensland Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Child Protection Peak Ltd (QATSICPP) on a complex analysis of services and their responses to culturally safe community needs: -New Ways for Our Families: Designing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practice framework and system responses to address the impacts of domestic and family violence on children and young people [https://lnkd.in/gBqVUUp8] -You can’t pour from an empty cup: Strengthening our service and systems responses for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people who experience domestic and family violence [https://lnkd.in/gqFqZNzF] To quote Emily in the report, this guide offers solutions to ensure that "policies are not just promises, but actions that change lives". https://lnkd.in/gDjrYG-v

Such an important document by ANROWS. Not only is the question "how" but also who causes the harm. If we talk about the impact of DFSV on children but do not name the persons causing the harm, the increase attention on the issue will lead to increased mother-blaming. Increased awareness of the harm to children from DFSV must focus keep in mind that "domestic violence perpetrators' behaviours and choices harm children" not just "domestic violence harms children." #PivotTothePerpetrator #UNCRC #StopBlamingMothers #StopIgnoringFathers

Yes, importantly in Queensland the new coercive control offence (legislated but being operationalised in 2025), may provide additional legal options in cases of intimate partner sexual violence, in these two ways: 1. A coercive control offence could be brought alongside a stand alone offence of rape or sexual assault (or other offence) and this will provide additional support of the coercive nature of the relationship for the jury's consideration; and 2. A coercive control offence could work in a similar way as a persistent child sexual abuse offence but for adults. As a course of conduct offence, the levels of particularisation required are not as high given the regularity of abuse, and the impact of trauma on memory. The Police and ODPP would require specific training about these issues to support such an approach.

Important visual illustrations for those working within #DVA #domesticviolence #domesticabuse #sexualabuse #power #control

#DFVPMonth raises awareness and brings our attention to those that may be experiencing domestic and family violence at home. How you respond if someone approaches you and confides in you, can make a huge difference! Listening can allow someone to feel validated and that you believe what they are experiencing is real. This simple action might give someone the strength to develop a safety plan to leave. Many women who experience gender-based violence by an intimate partner are asked by their family, friends and even figures of authority - ‘why didn’t you just leave?’ Leaving isn’t that simple but having the right kinds of conversations is a great start to changing paradigms for how we listen to and support victims. What is your first thought when someone tells you their story? Challenge your belief systems - listen, believe and support.

Looking for a hub for resources to prevent and end gender-based violence? Do you want to know more about how to work with men and boys to transform masculinities? Check this Knowledge Hub developed by Prevention Collaborative 👉 Check it out https://bit.ly/PrevColl Explore resources and case studies of how work with men and boys in a transformative capacity is being carried out

Shifting Perspectives, presented in partnership with Sexual Assault Voices of Edmonton (SAVE). Part 1 - Shifting Perspectives: Expanding Our Collective Framework for Anti-Violence Work March 11, 12:30-3:15 pm This workshop will create space for service providers and community members to reflect on and challenge the inherent biases that present themselves within the context of evolving anti-violence movements and justice systems, and consider alternatives to better support survivors with diverse identities and needs. Register now: https://bit.ly/3OQqG5C Part 2 - Shifting Perspectives: Diversifying Community Approaches to Anti-Violence Work Through Coordination and Collaboration March 19, 12:30-3:30 pm In part 2, participants will continue discussions and learning from part 1, exploring existing collaborative efforts to develop inclusive systems, and consider opportunities to build on and transform community responses to violence. Register now: https://bit.ly/3SN6h2r Sign up for one part or both!

This new (open access) article sheds light on the impact of violence exposure on young people and the perpetuation of the 'cycle of violence.' The authors argue that social and support interventions are necessary to reduce notions of toxic masculinity and promote non-violent environments. The article also raises important questions about sensitivity and context in relation to justice-involved youths' response to violence exposure. Check it out to learn more about this critical issue. https://lnkd.in/gc72FjYT #youthviolence #socialinterventions #nonviolence

Important paper making the fundamental point about the right to a legal identity for all children. Relevant also to those working on aid-related #SEAH #PSEA and children born under such circumstances.

Are you an experienced Domestic Violence Case Manager seeking your next position in an organisation that advocates and creates a tangible difference? In a world that's quick to turn a blind eye, our DVSS stands firm, advocating for women and children affected by domestic and family violence. We don't tiptoe around these issues; we face them head on. Our mission? To empower those silenced by violence, to give them the tools they need to regain control over their lives. We offer direct support, secure housing, and safe spaces. We strive to foster a world free from violence, where every woman and child, irrespective of their background or identity, can live without fear. This is not just our mission, it's our duty. https://buff.ly/4eIDLck