Amplifying survivor voices and promoting a holistic approach to combatting domestic and sexual violence

 

Unpacking Key Insights from a Vital Discussion on Domestic and Sexual Violence

At a recent meeting, the Coercive Control Advisory Team delved into the complexities of Addressing Sexual Violence and Coercion in Domestic Violence. 

In advance of the ‘Ending Coercive Control Conference,’ the Advisory Team, including Annabelle Daniel OAM, Jess Jill, Karen Bevan and Amanda Alford, shed light on the complexities of these forms of abuse and the challenges in addressing them effectively.

Honest dialogue surrounding domestic, family, and sexual violence took centre stage with the group delving into multifaceted aspects of these pressing issues, shedding light on essential points that demand attention and action.

Media Attention and Advocacy

The group acknowledged the significant leadership and work done by so many across generations to build awareness of and joint commitment to ending domestic, family and sexual violence. 

The team also acknowledged the unprecedented media attention on domestic and sexual violence, attributing it to the persistent efforts of a small group of committed female journalists in keeping these issues at the forefront and ensuring they remain in the public eye. 

Annabelle Daniel commented that they are helping to “shape the narrative around these sensitive topics and ensure that the conversation remains active and engaging, platforms women’s issues, and keeps necessary conversations at the forefront of people’s attention.”

The need for ongoing advocacy, prevention efforts, and a comprehensive response to violence against women was underscored. The discussion reflected a shared agreement about the value of continuing to build on work already underway, continue to reflect and innovate, and amplifying the voices of survivors and advocates.

Recognising Sexual & Intimate Partner Violence

Karen Bevan brought attention to the significance of recognizing sexual violence as a distinct yet interconnected aspect of domestic violence and stressed that “we need a comprehensive response that goes beyond traditional approaches.” Legislative and systemic reform, workforce training, and attitudinal change were identified by the group as crucial elements in combating these pervasive forms of abuse.

Legislative Reforms and Awareness

The meeting underscored the disparities in understanding coercive control across different states and the necessity of aligning with national principles. Emphasizing the pivotal role of legislative reforms in combating domestic violence, the discussion highlighted the need for structural and institutional changes. Moreover, there was a call for enhanced education and awareness to ensure a shared understanding of coercive control and domestic violence.

One key takeaway was the importance of understanding the nuances of coercive control and its role in perpetuating domestic violence. The meeting emphasized the need for a shared understanding of coercive control across different jurisdictions to ensure a cohesive response with Jess Hill commenting that, “I don’t know that every state yet has a shared understanding of what coercive control is.” This lack of uniformity in understanding was seen as a potential challenge by all of the group in how we address domestic and family violence effectively.

It was noted that legislative reform alone is not sufficient, and additional elements such as attitudinal change, structural systems, and institutional modifications are essential for effective implementation. The discussion underscored the need for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond legislative changes to ensure the effectiveness of interventions related to coercive control.

Intersectional Approaches and Workforce Capacity

A key takeaway was the significance of collaboration across various sectors. The conversation also touched upon the critical need to build the capacity of the workforce to effectively respond to domestic, family and sexual violence. 

Amanda Alford emphasized the need for multifaceted and intersectional approaches to address the issue, ensuring that all parts of the system work together.  She believes that we need to acknowledge the existing evidence base and the need to continue to build on it and innovate”. She continued stating, “we also need to engage across prevention, early intervention, response and recovery and be clear that everyone has an important role to play if we want to stop this violence before it starts”. 

Moreover, the discussion underscored the vital role of building a workforce and appropriate training in recognizing and addressing sexual violence and coercion. The team emphasizing the need for specialized skills and support services to effectively prevent and respond to these forms of abuse.

The meeting also touched upon the challenges faced by victim survivors in seeking help and problem-solving in the face of abuse, with Jess questioning the use of the term ‘reporting’ and its connotations for victim-survivors. The importance of creating safe spaces and providing support for those affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse was a recurring theme throughout the discussion.

Supporting action 

The team expressed tiredness and frustration with the use of platitudes and the need for more substantial action. Karen shared, and everyone agreed, that there are a “lot of passionate, committed but very tired women out there who continue to work very hard.” 

She highlighted the ineffectiveness of traditional rhetoric and the urgency for genuine responses to issues like domestic and family violence. Annabelle leaned into the need for a shift in the approach towards victims and survivors, stating, “we need to focus on providing seamless and comprehensive support rather than rhetoric.” Jess agreed and countered that “we need to demand tangible solutions to systemic failures”. 

By working together, acknowledging and amplifying the diverse needs of survivors, progress can be made towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for those affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse.

Overall, the Advisory Team meeting provided valuable insights into the complexities of addressing sexual violence and coercion within the context of domestic violence. It highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach across all parts of the system and one that encompasses legislative, systemic and structural reform, a shift in attitudes towards these forms of abuse as well as strong foundations to support this work, including a skilled workforce.