“Domestic and Family Violence doesn’t affect our workplace.”
If you’ve ever heard this statement—or perhaps even thought it yourself—you’re not alone. It’s a common misconception that domestic and family violence (DFV) is something that happens “out there,” separate from our professional lives. But the reality is starkly different.
Domestic violence touches every workplace across Australia—regardless of industry, role, or demographic.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
The statistics paint a sobering picture. Over 700,000 Australian women aged 18 to 64 who experienced partner violence, emotional abuse, or economic abuse in the past five years are currently in employment¹. That’s more than 60% of women experiencing domestic violence who are actively part of our workforce¹.
But here’s what makes this even more concerning: it’s not always visible, and it’s not always reported. The colleague sitting next to you, the team member who seems a bit distracted lately, or the employee who’s been taking more sick days—any of them could be silently struggling with domestic violence.
It Affects Everyone
Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate. It impacts:
- 🌈 LGBTQ+ communities
- 🧠 People with mental health challenges
- 🧒 Children
- 👵 Older adults
- 🖤 First Nations people
- 🌍 Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities
- ♿ People with disability
- 👥 People in heterosexual relationships
And here’s a crucial point: it doesn’t matter how much money someone earns. Domestic violence crosses all socioeconomic boundaries, affecting executives and entry-level employees alike.
The Workplace Impact
Research shows that up to 78% of perpetrators have committed domestic and family violence during work hours, sometimes using workplace resources⁴. This means our workplaces aren’t just affected by DFV—they can actually become sites where violence occurs.
The consequences ripple through organisations in the form of:
- Decreased productivity¹
- Increased absenteeism¹
- Higher staff turnover
- Reduced workplace morale
- Potential safety risks for other employees
Don’t Fear It, Don’t Ignore It—Be Ready for It
As Australian workplaces, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to be part of the solution. The introduction of paid family and domestic violence leave has been a positive step²,³, but there’s so much more we can do.
You don’t need to be a counsellor. But you do need to be prepared.
What Being Ready Looks Like
Develop Clear Policies: Have comprehensive workplace policies that address domestic violence, including clear procedures for managers and colleagues⁵.
Provide Flexible Support: Offer paid domestic violence leave and flexible work arrangements when needed⁵.
Ensure Confidentiality: Create a culture where employees feel safe to disclose their situation without fear of discrimination or adverse action⁵.
Implement Safety Planning: Have procedures in place to protect employees’ physical safety at work when necessary⁵.
Facilitate Access to Support: Connect employees with Employee Assistance Programs, counselling services, and specialised domestic violence support organisations⁵.
Train Your Team: Provide education for management and staff on recognising signs, managing disclosures appropriately, and offering empathetic support⁵.
Foster a Supportive Culture: Openly demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to addressing domestic violence, creating an environment where employees feel safe seeking help⁵.
The Bottom Line
Domestic violence is a national crisis that affects 3.8 million Australians aged 18 and over⁶. In 2024 alone, we’ve seen a sharp rise in domestic violence-related deaths, with 36 women killed by violence in just the first half of the year².
When a team member comes to your leaders asking for support, having the right processes in place—supported by expert guidance—means you’ll know exactly what to do. You’ll be ready to respond with compassion, professionalism, and effectiveness.
Because ignoring domestic violence doesn’t make it go away. But being prepared to address it can make all the difference.
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References
Mission Australia. Domestic and Family Violence Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.missionaustralia.com.au/domestic-and-family-violence-statistics
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If you or someone you know needs support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) for confidential information, counselling and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Paul Ramsay Foundation. (2024). New report reveals severe impact of domestic violence on women’s employment and education. Retrieved from https://www.paulramsayfoundation.org.au/news-resources/new-report-reveals-severe-impact-of-domestic-violence-on-womens-employment-and-education
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. (2024). Australian Council of Trade Unions Submission. Retrieved from https://www.dewr.gov.au/system/files/2024-10/Sub17_ACTU_24%20Jun%2024.pdf
Behavioural Economics Team. (2024). Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave Survey Report. Prime Minister and Cabinet. Retrieved from https://behaviouraleconomics.pmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/projects/paid-family-domestic-violence-leave-survey-report.pdf
Forbes Australia. (2024). The role of workplaces in addressing violence against women. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com.au/news/leadership/the-role-of-workplaces-in-addressing-violence-against-women/
Australian Human Resources Institute. Employer Guide to Family and Domestic Violence. Retrieved from https://www.ahri.com.au/wp-content/uploads/employer-guide-to-family-and-domestic-violence.pdf
