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Identifying Family Violence
The Albanese Labor Government is investing in new ways to support victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence. We are investing more than $103 million in pilot programs to support victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence, run through Primary Health Networks (PHNs) across Australia. We have a vision – to end gender-based violence in one generation. It is ambitious, but not impossible.
Recognising the signs of family violence in children can be challenging, as they can resemble signs of other issues like school bullying. It is important to know the signs that a child is experiencing or exposed to family violence:
- regression (especially in toddlers)
- they complain about illness (stomachache or headache)
- they have trouble concentrating on tasks
- there are high levels of general distress or an inability to self soothe or regulate
- they have difficulty with friendships
- they act out (the ‘naughty’ child) or withdraw (the ‘quiet’ child)
- they show ‘mean’ or violent behaviour toward other children or family members
- they don’t want to go home
- they are unable to nap or are experiencing sleep disturbances
- they are watchful or seem on ‘alert’.
Signs that a young person may be experiencing or exposed to family violence:
- they stop seeing friends or have difficulty with friendships
- they change the way they dress
- they skip school or start getting lower grades
- they don’t communicate or they become secretive
- they have unexplainable bruising
- they get angry and aggressive at friends and family
- they put on weight or lose weight
- they put themselves down
- they have difficulty concentrating
- they feel unwell with stomach cramps or headaches
- they ‘act out’ or withdraw.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family, domestic, or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au; Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 or visit Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service | 1800 55 1800, and MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 or visit Free help, referrals & counselling for men: MensLine Australia.
Strengthening Inclusion in Early Childhood Education and Care
It is vital to ensure that early childhood educators have the knowledge and resources at their disposal to best support young children and their families in accessing available support, and that educators are able to work alongside families and carers to ensure consistency in service delivery. We are committed to strengthening inclusion for families and caregivers of children with disabilities or development concerns.
New resources have been developed to enhance inclusivity and bolster the capabilities of staff and educators in early childhood and education settings. Aligned with Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-2031 Early Childhood Targeted Action Plan, these resources will facilitate collaborative efforts between state, territory, and Commonwealth programs, and will be publicly available on the Department of Social Services website here.
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