Domestic violence is the use of violence by one person to control another person. The term is used to describe any kind of abuse that occurs in intimate personal relationships, for example, physical, emotional, social, financial, and psychological abuse. Abuse occurring in other inter-personal relationships may also be referred to as family violence, dating violence and elder abuse. 

Research indicates that the victims of domestic and family violence are predominantly women and children. Domestic and family violence is a traumatic experience for both women and for children who may observe or experience the violence. 

Most perpetrators of domestic and family violence would prefer to have non-violent, healthy relationships.

Family members are offered individual counselling as required while most of the work with children is in the context of family therapy, and usually involves assessment and intervention in relation to family functioning.

• Domestic and family violence is an exercise in power and control.
• Every child and adult  has the right to live free from violence and has the right to make informed choices.
• Children, young people and families who have experienced abuse and trauma require therapeutic interventions to enable them to integrate experiences, provide opportunities for change and growth, and for hopeful futures.
• All people/families can change.
• Families need stable accommodation, freedom from violence and participation in community to achieve wellbeing and protect their children.
• Every intervention with an individual, client, family, group or community is to be based on principles of social justice, respect and self determination.

For more information, please visit DV Connect and the Department of Communities.

To find out how your local Lifeline can help, please see the list of programs below and contact your local Lifeline for more information.

• Supported Accommodation for Women and Children - Brisbane, South Burnett
• Prevention and Intervention Groups - Capalaba
• Video Link Domestic Violence Counselling - Bundaberg, South Burnett
• Individual Family Care for Indigenous Families - Bundaberg
• Mens Domestic Violence Group - Ipswich