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What is family violence?

For the purposes of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) family violence is any "violent, threatening or other behaviour by a person that coerces or controls a member of the person's family, or causes the family member to be fearful" [s 4AB].

It sets out the following range of examples:

  • an assault
  • a sexual assault or other sexually abusive behaviour
  • stalking
  • repeated derogatory taunts
  • intentionally damaging or destroying property
  • intentionally causing injury or death to an animal
  • unreasonably denying the family member financial autonomy
  • unreasonably withholding financial support at a time when the family member is entirely or predominantly dependent
  • preventing the family member from making or keeping connections with his or her family, friends or culture
  • unlawfully depriving a family member his or her liberty.

The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia has put together a video titled What is family violence?

In an emergency: 000

For police attendance: 131 444

Domestic Violence Crisis Line: 1800 800 098

1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732.

What is family violence?  :  Last Revised: Thu Nov 2nd 2023
The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.