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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
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