Domestic Violence and the Silent Suffering of Children

This year in Australia, we have witnessed a distressing number of women losing their lives to domestic violence, 53 at the time of writing. One of these crimes happened a few streets away from my own home in an ordinary suburb of Sydney where lots of children live and play – three overflowing primary schools within a one kilometre radius. The headlines are sobering, and the urgency to address this crisis is evident, because in the shadows is a group of voiceless victims whose pain too often goes unnoticed - children.

As headlines continue to report the alarming number of women killed in domestic violence attacks in 2023, we must also turn our gaze toward the youngest casualties of this epidemic. Too many people believe that the children left behind are ‘uninjured’ or ‘unharmed’.

Children don’t have to see domestic and family violence to be affected by it. Nor are they ‘witnesses’ to the violent or coercive attacks. They are victims just like their mothers.

Children exposed to family violence bear scars that extend far beyond the physical. The emotional and psychological toll is immeasurable, with repercussions that can last a lifetime. Unfortunately, in Australia, legislation, policy and funding often fail to adequately address the unique needs of these young survivors, perpetuating a cycle of silence and trauma.

We have the evidence and research which shows the devastating statistics: 1 in 4 children in Australia are exposed to domestic and family violence*, and one child per fortnight is killed in Australia by a parent or step-parent.*. Behind each of these statistics are real people and stories of pain and fear. These stories underscore the urgent need for comprehensive, systemic change. From the courageous survivors breaking their silence to the heart-rending testimonials of children we hear when working with families, these narratives should serve as a rallying cry for action.

During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gendered-Based Violence, I am urging everyone to recognise the profound and lasting impact of domestic violence on children and join us in advocating for change. Barnardos Australia is calling upon individuals, communities, and policymakers to be the advocates these voiceless children desperately need.

We are calling for:

·??????? Education and awareness which leads to the prevention of domestic and family violence

Education programs that promote healthy relationships, consent, and conflict resolution from an early age need to be implemented in all schools. An environment where schools, communities, and families actively work to break the cycle of abuse can act be a powerful deterrent.

·??????? Policy reform

We need policies which prioritise the well-being of children affected by domestic violence. Children must be recognised as victim-survivors with their own unique support needs.

·??????? Increased funding for specialist domestic and family violence workers

More funding is needed for child specialist DV workers to support services specifically tailored to children exposed to family violence. These services need to include counselling, trauma-informed care, and educational support.

I invite you to stand up, speak out, and advocate for a future where no child has to endure the silent suffering caused by family violence. By amplifying their voices and addressing their unique needs, we can break the cycle and build a society where every child is afforded the opportunity to grow, thrive, and live without fear.

Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse 2011, The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children: A Literature Review* “Truth is, the abuse never stopped”, Dr Robert Urquhart and Jennifer Doyle 2022

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