4 in 10 Australians were exposed to domestic violence as children. The Australian Child Maltreatment Study (2023) found exposure to domestic violence (39.6%) is the most common form of child maltreatment in Australia. The six most common combinations of maltreatment all include it, affecting one-third of the population. Children in homes where violence happens are not bystanders. They hear it, see the injuries and damage afterwards, try to protect a parent, and live in fear of the next time. Yet Australian criminal law still largely treats them as witnesses rather than victims.

This persistent legal oversight does a profound disservice to the countless children who endure the psychological and emotional scars of living in a violent home. Recognising children as victims rather than witnesses can open doors to more comprehensive support services tailored specifically to their needs. It can ensure they receive immediate psychological assistance, safe spaces, and protective measures to shield them from ongoing harm.

For further details and sign & share: https://www.change.org/p/recognise-children-as-victims-of-domestic-violence-in-australia?recruiter=525107882&recruited_by_id=26f391b0-ffad-11e5-b686-6deb4c6ef588&share_id=Y5qtGcXxXB