special collections - Indigenous people
Indigenous peoples' experiences of and responses to domestic and family violence
Introduction
In Australia, the rate and severity of domestic and family violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is recognised critical challenge by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Such violence plays a significant role in the morbidity and mortality of Indigenous people. Women bear the brunt of the violence, with Indigenous women 35 times more likely to suffer family violence and sustain serious injuring requiring hospitalisation, and 10 times more likely to die due to family violence, than non-Indigenous women.
The causes of domestic and family violence in Indigenous communities are complex. The violence is situated in a context of colonisation and dispossession, marginalisation, entrenched poverty and racism. The separation of Indigenous children from their families over generations and the translocation of groups of Indigenous people from their traditional lands is widely acknowledged as leading to a breakdown of community kinship systems, family relationships and Aboriginal law. In some communities, high levels of alcohol and drug use contribute to the severity of violence experienced. In rural and remote regions, the limited access to police and other services also poses challenges to help seeking and response.
In rising to meet these challenges, many Indigenous communities have developed their own responses to family violence, which include educational initiatives and men’s programs, as well as moves to incorporate principles of customary law into the justice system. Community-led approaches are critical to promoting safety in Indigenous families and communities.
In this special collection, you will find research and resources related to:
Click here for a list of all our resources on this topic.
The prevalence and impact of violence
Indigenous perpetrators of violence: prevalence and risk factors for offending
Wundersitz J 2010, ‘Indigenous perpetrators of violence: prevalence and risk factors for offending’, Australian Institute of Criminology, Canberra, Record #4915
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family Violence : facts and figures
Nancarrow H & Schmider J 2007,’Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family Violence : facts and figures’, Mackay, Qld.: Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, Central Queensland University, Record # 4369
This document provides an overview of the recent statistics on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family violence, with a particular focus on Queensland. It is intended as a reference for service providers and organisations to use when preparing campaigns and funding submissions.
Adult sexual violence in Indigenous and culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia
Taylor N & Putt J 2007, ‘Adult sexual violence in Indigenous and culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia’, Australian Institute of Criminology, Canberra, Record #4217
This Australian paper reports on findings of a study investigating sexual violence among Indigenous and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women. It examines both barriers to reporting and ways to improve the criminal justice system response.
Family violence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Al-Yaman F, Van Doeland M & Wallis M 2006, ‘Family violence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Canberra, Record #3730
This national Australian report presents and explores national data sources that could provide information about general violence, family violence and/or partner violence among Indigenous Australians.
Family Violence: an Australian Indigenous community tells its story
Cheers B, Binell M, Coleman H, Gentle I, Miller G, Taylor J, Weetra C 2006, 'Family Violence: an Australian Indigenous community tells its story', International social work, vol. 49, no. 1, pp. 51-63, Record #3915
This Australian article reports on research examining the issue of family violence, its causes, impacts and prevention, as perceived and understood by an Indigenous community.
The role of alcohol in family violence
Commissioners’ Drugs Committee, Australasian Centre for Policing Research 2005, ‘The role of alcohol in family violence’, Australasian Centre for Policing Research, Sydney, Record #3653
This paper focuses on the violence perpetrated by men against women and discusses the role of alcohol in family violence through Australian and New Zealand literature and research. An overview and available statistics on family violence in the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are provided.
Working to address Indigenous family violence
Partnerships Against Domestic Violence (Australia) 2005, ‘Working to address Indigenous family violence’, Partnerships Against Domestic Violence, Canberra, Record # 3213
This fact sheet identifies the multi-causal factors for the high rates of violence in Indigenous communities: marginalisation and dispossession; loss of land and traditional culture; breakdown of community kinship systems and Aboriginal law; entrenched poverty and racism. It describes prevention and early intervention programmes, and highlights key learnings from community education and development campaigns, and collaborative projects.
Community development approaches to safety and wellbeing of Indigenous children
Higgins DJ 2010, ‘Community development approaches to safety and wellbeing of Indigenous children’, Closing the Gap Clearinghouse, Canberra, Record #5133
This resource sheet examines the effectiveness of a range of strategies in preventing and responding to maltreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Using the principles of community development and culturally competent practices, it identifies a number of promising Indigenous programs and services.
Child protection and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
Berlyn C & Bromfield L 2009, ‘Child protection and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’, National Child Protection Clearinghouse, Melbourne, Record #5341
This resource sheet provides an overview of data on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’s contact with child protection agencies.
There should be more help out here! A qualitative study of the needs of Aboriginal adolescents in rural Australia
Mohajer N, Bessarab D, & Earnest J 2009, ‘There should be more help out here! A qualitative study of the needs of Aboriginal adolescents in rural Australia’, Rural and Remote Health 9 (online), Centre for International Health, Perth, no.1137, Record # 4626
This study examines the social and cultural needs of Aboriginal adolescents living in or near rural towns by identifying their views concerning health promotion, support networks, the problems they face and their beliefs on who should assist them meet their health needs.
Ampe akelyernemane meke mekarle : “little children are sacred” : report of the Northern Territory board of inquiry into the
protection of Aboriginal children from sexual abuse
Northern Territory Board of Inquiry into the Protection of Aboriginal Children from Sexual Abuse 2007, 'Ampe akelyernemane meke mekarle : "little children are sacred" : report of the Northern Territory board of inquiry into the protection of Aboriginal children from sexual abuse', Northern Territory Government, Darwin Record # 4904
This report discusses the sexual abuse of Aboriginal children in the Northern Territory of Australia. It offers consultative, community based solutions that take into account the particular position and disadvantage of Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory.
CAFWAA response to the Ampe Akelyernemane Meke Mekarle "Little Children are Sacred" report
The Child & Family Welfare Association of Australia (CAFWAA) 2007, ‘CAFWAA response to the Ampe Akelyernemane Meke Mekarle “Little Children are Sacred" report’, The Child & Family Welfare Association of Australia, Record # 4062
The “Little Children are Sacred” report found widespread abuse and neglect of Indigenous children in the Northern Territory of Australia. This paper outlines children’s programs that the Child and Family Welfare Association of Australia (CAFWAA) suggests would be a suitable response to these findings.
Indigenising Indigenous child welfare
Libesman T 2007, 'Indigenising Indigenous child welfare', Indigenous law bulletin, vol. 6 , no. 24, December/January 2007 , pp. 17-19, Record # 4111
This paper argues that the delivery of children’s services by Australian Government departments has failed to produce good outcomes for Indigenous children and families, and that responsibility and resources for these services should be shifted to Indigenous communities.
Breaking the silence : creating the future : addressing child sexual assault in Aboriginal communities in NSW
Aboriginal Child Sexual Assault Taskforce 2006, ‘Breaking the silence : creating the future : addressing child sexual assault in Aboriginal communities in NSW’, NSW Attorney General’s Department, Sydney Record #4166
The NSW Aboriginal Child Sexual Assault Taskforce (ACSAT) examined government and non-government responses to the sexual assault of Aboriginal children in NSW and made 119 recommendations about ways to improve the system. It also called for work to begin on developing new, community-based responses to child sexual assault.
Achieving stable and culturally strong out of home care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care 2005, ‘Achieving stable and culturally strong out of home care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’, Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care, Melbourne, Record #3551
This policy paper emphasises the importance of out-of-home care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children that is culturally strong, and provides security without adoptions and without the need for strict permanency planning rules.
Footprints to where we are: a resource manual for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’s services
Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care 2005, ‘Footprints to where we are : a resource manual for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’s services’ Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care Inc., Melbourne, Record #3552
The Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care Inc. (SNAICC) produced this resource manual as part of the capacity-building work in the early childhood and child and family welfare fields. It highlights the strengths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander agencies.
Hospital admissions of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians due to interpersonal violence, July 1999 to June 2004
Berry J, Harrison JE & Ryan P 2009 ‘Hospital admissions of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians due to interpersonal violence, July 1999 to June 2004’ Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, Vol. 33, No. 3, pp. 215-22, Record #4625
This study compares patterns of injury hospitalisation of Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations. It examines the relationship of age, gender, geographical location and Indigenous identification to injury related hospitalisations, particularly where the injury is caused by interpersonal violence.
Measuring the burden of interpersonal violence victimisation in Western Australia
Meuleners L, Hendrie D & Lee AH 2008, ‘Measuring the burden of interpersonal violence victimisation in Western Australia’, Australian Institute of Criminology, Canberra, Record #4370
This paper describes a Western Australian study investigating the prevalence and cost to society of mental illness in victims hospitalised due to interpersonal violence. It concludes that Indigenous people and young women are at a particularly high risk of more severe injury and do not have access to adequate health care services.
See also:
Hospitalisation for head injury due to assault among Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, July 1999 – June 2005
Jamieson LM, Harrison JE, Berry JG 2008, 'Hospitalisation for head injury due to assault among Indigenous and non-Indigenous AustraliansJuly 1999 – June 2005', Medical Journal of Australia, Vol. 188, No. 10, pp. 576-579, Record # 4485
This study found that the rate of hospitalisation for head injury due to assault among the Indigenous population is 21 times that among the non-Indigenous population. Indigenous people, particularly women, were disproportionately represented among those hospitalised for head injury due to assault.
Yajilarra : to dream : Aboriginal women leading change in remote Australia [DVD]
Latimer J & Hogan M 2009, ‘Yajilarra: to dream: Aboriginal women leading change in remote Australia [DVD]’, Marninwarntikura Women’s Resource Centre, Fitzroy Valley, WA, Record #4750
The success of a campaign, led by local Indigenous women, to ban the sale of full strength alcohol in the remote Western Australian community of Fitzroy Valley is documented in this DVD. The campaign was initiated in response to high levels of family violence and alcohol abuse.
Ending family violence and abuse in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities : key issues – an overview paper of research and findings by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, 2001-2006
Prepared by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner 2006, ‘Ending family violence and abuse in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities: key issues – an overview paper of research and findings by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission 2001-2006’, Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, Sydney NSW, Record #3562
This Australian report, based on research and consultations conducted between 2001 and 2006, calls for a holistic approach to family violence in Indigenous communities. It covers a number of key issues, including the role of Aboriginal customary law and human rights approaches in ending family violence.
Addressing family violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities - key issues
Calma T 2006, Addressing family violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities - key issues’, Ending violence in Indigenous communities Forum, Parliament House Canberra, Record # 4537
Tom Calma, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner, speaks on the issues that must be addressed in overcoming family violence in Indigenous communities in Australia.
What’s needed to improve child abuse/family violence in a social and emotional well being framework in Aboriginal communities
National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation 2006, ‘What’s needed to improve child abuse/family violence in a social and emotional well being framework in Aboriginal communities’, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, South Melbourne, Record #3565
This document presents the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation’s position on child sexual abuse/family violence through a social and emotional well being framework. NACCHO advocates a holistic response to violence in Aboriginal communities, with a focus on healing and empowerment.
Sustainable tenancy for Indigenous families: what services and policy supports are needed?
Cooper L & Morris M 2005, Sustainable tenancy for Indigenous families: what services and policy supports are needed?’,Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, Adelaide, Record # 3221
This report presents the findings of a Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute project, undertaken during 2003, which aimed to identify key factors that perpetuate homelessness among Indigenous families, especially Indigenous women and children, in both urban and remote areas.
Kowanko I, Stewart T, Power C, Fraser R, Love I & Bromley T 2009, 'An Aboriginal family and community healing program in metropolitan Adelaide: description and evaluation',
Australian Indigenous Health Bulletin, vol. 9, no. 4, Record #4732
This paper describes and evaluates the process, impacts and outcomes of an Aboriginal Family and Community Healing (AFCH) Program based in metropolitan Adelaide, South Australia.
Lumby B & Farrelly T 2009, 'Family violence, help-seeking & the close-knit Aboriginal community: lessons for mainstream service provision', Australian Domestic & Family Violence Clearinghouse issues paper, no. 19, Record #4691
This paper reports on the findings of a qualitative study examining help-seeking behaviours in Aboriginal communities around the issue of family violence, with a view to providing potential strategies and solutions in both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal agencies
Family violence is everyone's business : frontline service delivery to Indigenous victims of family violence in Central Australia
Clarke P & Lethlean V 2008,‘Family violence is everyone's business : frontline service delivery to Indigenous victims of family violence in Central Australia’ Central Australian Aboriginal Family Legal Unit, Alice Springs, Record #4391
The paper reports on the disadvantage experienced by their clients in accessing legal services, such as poverty, geographic isolation, literacy and language difficulties, post traumatic stress disorder and depression. They call for a holistic, multidisciplinary sexual assault service in Alice Springs and culturally appropriate perpetrator programs.
Good news from the "too hard basket": working toward a good practice model for Aboriginal family violence
Snell R & Hughes M 2008, 'Good news from the "too hard basket": working toward a good practice model for Aboriginal family violence', Parity, Vol. 21, No. 3, pp. 59-60, Record #4335
This South Australian journal article reports on a project jointly undertaken by an Aboriginal specific family violence service and a mainstream domestic violence service. They found that good practice requires strong community involvement and support, new ways of understanding how to assist women to keep themselves and their children safe, and cultural safety for Aboriginal workers in non-Aboriginal organisations.
Higgins J & Butler N 2007, ‘Promising practices in out-of-home care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers, children and young people: profiling promising programs’,
Australian Institute of Family Studies, Melbourne, Record #4926
The object of this Australia-based project, summarised in this set of four booklets, was to profile promising practices in the area of service provision to Indigenous children in care. The project was carried out by the National Child Protection Clearinghouse in collaboration with the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care.
White privilege and the fiction of colour blindness: implications for best practice standards for Aboriginal victims of family violence
Hovane V 2007, White privilege and the fiction of colour blindness: implication for best practice standards for Aboriginal victims of family violence', Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse newsletter, Vol. 27 Summer 2007, pp. 8-11. Record # 3892
This article argues that the Western Australian Best Practice Model for the Provision of Programs for Victims of Domestic Violence is based on colour blind, White feminist family violence principles. The effect is to exclude Aboriginal, migrant and other cultural groups from equal access to services.
Good practice in Indigenous family violence prevention – designing and evaluating successful programs
Memmott P, Chambers C, Go-Sam C, Thomson L 2006 ‘Good practice in Indigenous family violence prevention – designing and evaluating successful programs', Australian Domestic & Family Violence Clearinghouse issues paper, no. 11, pp. [whole issue], Record #3531
This Australian paper examines the current state of good practice in regard to projects and program aimed at reducing Indigenous family violence. It discusses how family violence programs can work in communities and how funding arrangements can be planned to complement successful efforts.
Evaluation of the family Violence Regional Activities Program : final report (FVRAP)
Courage Partners teamed with Morgan Disney & Associates and Success Works 2005, ‘Evaluation of the family Violence Regional Activities Program : final report (FVRAP)’, Department of Family and Community Services, Canberra, Record #3709
This final report presents the evaluation of the Family Violence Regional Activities Program (FVRAP). FVRAP is a series of local, community activities, intended to address local priorities with regard to family violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Indigenous Family Safety Agenda
Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs 2010, ‘Indigenous Family Safety Agenda’, Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra, Record #5345
The Indigenous Family Safety Agenda was released by the Commonwealth Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) in July 2010. The agenda includes four priority action areas: Addressing alcohol abuse; More effective police protection; Working with strong local leaders to strengthen social norms against violence; Coordinating support services.
Northern Territory emergency response: one year on
Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs 2008, ‘Northern Territory emergency response: one year on’, Australian Govt. Pub. Service, Canberra, Record #4342
This Australia report outlines the progress made in the first year of the Northern Territory Emergency Response. The main measures undertaken were in the areas of coordination, law and order, supporting families, welfare reform and employment, child and family health, education and housing and land reform.
Building on our strengths: a framework for action for women in the Northern Territory 2008-2012
Department of the Chief Minister 2008, ‘Building on our strengths: a framework for action for women in the Northern Territory 2008-2012’ , Dept. of the Chief Minister, Darwin, Record #4411
The booklet lists the activities undertaken to address family violence, sexual assault and workplace bullying or harassment, as well as future actions the government plans to take. These actions include a new Domestic and Family Violence Strategy and the development of integrated community based family violence programs for Aboriginal people.
New South Wales interagency plan to tackle child sexual assault in Aboriginal communities 2006-2011
New South Wales Government 2007, ‘New South Wales interagency plan to tackle child sexual assault in Aboriginal communities 2006-2011’, New South Wales Government, Sydney, Record # 4169
This five year plan outlines the steps the NSW Government intends to take to prevent the sexual assault of Aboriginal children. It focuses on law enforcement, child protection, early intervention and prevention, and community leadership and support.
Aboriginal Affairs Victoria ten year state plan to address family violence in Aboriginal communities
Victoria Department of Planning and Community Development & Aboriginal Affairs Victoria 2008, 'Strong Culture, Strong Peoples, Strong Families: towards a safer future for Indigenous families and communities, 10 year plan', Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Department of Planning and Community Development, Melbourne, Victoria # 4629
This ten year plan addresses family violence in Aboriginal communities. The strategy has eight objectives: cultural safety; healthy families; education awareness and prevention; safety for victims; accountability; healing; service capability and research and evaluation.
Cunneen C 2010, ‘Alternative and improved responses to domestic and family violence in Queensland Indigenous communities’, University of New South Wales, Sydney
This report to the Queensland Government investigates whether or not the legal system is responding adequately to domestic and family violence against Indigenous people, with a focus on the effectiveness of protection orders. The report is based on research commissioned by the Violence Prevention Unit in the Department of Communities.
Nancarrow H 2010, ‘Restorative justice for domestic and family violence: hopes and fears of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian women’ in Ptacek J (ed.), Restorative justice and violence against women, Oxford University Press, New York, pp. 123-149
This book chapter on Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian women’s responses to restorative justice forms part of a collection of papers on the dangers and benefits of this approach. The collection features contributions from the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
No justice without healings: Australian Aboriginal people and family violence
Cox D, Young M & Bairnsfather-Scott A 2009, ‘No justice without healings: Australian Aboriginal people and family violence’, Australian Feminist Law Journal, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 151-162, Record #4782
This Australian article argues that responses to family violence in Aboriginal communities should promote healing processes which recognise the impact of colonisation and the legacies of past injustice. It advocates a holistic approach to healing, drawing on the lessons of the Community Holistic Circle Healing program in Canada.
Does circle sentencing reduce Aboriginal offending?
Fitzgerald J 2008, 'Does circle sentencing reduce Aboriginal offending? Crime and justice bulletin, vol. 115, pp. 1-12. Record #4328
Ending Family Violence Program Woorabinda
Hennessy A & Willie C 2006, 'Ending Family Violence Program Woorabinda', Queensland Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum, Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, Windmill Motel, Mackay, 2-3 May 2006, pp. 1-10, Record #3606
This paper outlines the program developed for Indigenous offenders by the Rockhampton Office of Community Corrections in Woorabinda. The program aims to divert offenders to a culturally appropriate offender intervention program.
Women and legal aid : identifying disadvantage : executive summary
Hunter R, De Simone T, Whitaker L, Bathgate J & Svensson A 2006, ‘Women and legal aid : identifying disadvantage : executive summary’,Griffith University & Legal Aid Australia, Brisbane, Record # 4140
This study found that the Legal Aid Queensland application and refusal processes have systematically adverse impacts on women from non-English speaking backgrounds (NESB), Indigenous women, older women, rural and regional women and women with a disability.
Aboriginal customary law and the family
Law Reform Commission of Western Australia 2006,’Aboriginal customary law and the family’ in Aboriginal customary laws final report : the interaction of Western Australian law with Aboriginal law and culture Law Reform Commission of Western Australia, Perth pp. 271-298 Record #3908
This report chapter looks at Australian Indigenous customary laws that relate to family matters and makes recommendations on how they may be dealt with in the context of Western Australian legislation.
Aboriginal women, girls and sexual assault : the long road to equality within the criminal justice system
McGlade H 2006, ‘Aboriginal women, girls and sexual assault : the long road to equality within the criminal justice system’ Aware : Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault newsletter, no. 12, pp. 6-13, Record #3743
This Australian article looks at two recent decisions of the Northern Territory Supreme Court regarding the sexual assault of Aboriginal girls. It argues that the issue of discriminatory treatment of Aboriginal women and girls demonstrates that there is a long way to go before achieving equality before the criminal justice system.
In search of justice for domestic and family violence: Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian women's perspectives
Nancarrow H 2006, 'In search of justice for domestic and family violence: Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian women's perspectives', Theoretical Criminology, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 87-106, Record #3576
This article presents perspectives of Indigenous and non-Indigenous women from two Queensland taskforces that considered justice responses to violence against women.
In search of justice in family violence: exploring alternative justice responses in the Victorian Indigenous Australian Community
Inglis R, Bluett-Boyd NM for Victorian Aboriginal Legal Services Co-Operative Ltd 2005. ‘In search of justice in family violence: exploring alternative justice responses in the Victorian Indigenous Australian Community’, Victorian Aboriginal Legal Services Co-Operative Ltd, Melbourne, Record #3595
This Victorian report considers the tensions that exist between non-Indigenous and Indigenous approaches to understanding and responding to violence. It looks at the damaging impact of colonisation and dispossession on the relationships Indigenous Australian peoples have with their kin, their lands and communities.
Access of Indigenous Australians to law and justice services
Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit 2005, ‘Access of Indigenous Australians to law and justice services’, Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit, Canberra, Record #3624
This chapter of the 2005 Report on Access of Indigenous Australians to Law and Justice Services looks at Indigenous women and their access to legal services.
Aboriginal women's interests in customary law recognition
Wohlan C 2005, ‘Aboriginal women's interests in customary law recognition' Law Reform Commission of Western Australia, ch. 3, pp. 11-17, Perth, Record #3629
This paper examines family violence and the position of Aboriginal women under Aboriginal law. It includes a literature review on feminism and Aboriginal women, including issues of eurocentrism denying the agency of Aboriginal women.
Justice reinvestment: a new strategy to address family violence
Gooda M 2010, ‘Justice reinvestment: a new strategy to address family violence’paper presented at the National Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum, Mackay, Qld, 19-20 May, Record # 5340
This speech discusses the potential of justice reinvestment as a strategy to reduce the over-representation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system, through investment in community programs, services and activities aimed at addressing the underlying causes of crime. In the context of family violence, justice reinvestment involves targeting resources at rehabilitating offenders.
National Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum 2010 : safe homes, solid families, let’s build on it!
Nancarrow H 2010, ‘National Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum 2010: safe homes, solid families, let’s build on it!’, Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, Mackay, Qld., Record #4929
This report summarises the goals, presentations and forum evaluation feedback of the Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum held at Central Queensland University on 19-20 May 2010. This year was the first time the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research (QCDFVR) worked in partnership with the Australian Institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) and Charles Darwin University (CDU) to present the forum as a national event.
Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum report : the big picture - putting the pieces together
Nancarrow H 2009, ‘Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum report: the big picture - putting the pieces together’, Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, Mackay, Qld., Record #4731
The Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum is held annually in Mackay, Queensland. This report summarises the goals, presentations and forum evaluation feedback of the 2009 forum. Key themes of the conference included healing programs, alcohol management and community leadership.
Risk factors in Indigenous violent victimisation
Bryant C & Willis M 2008, ‘Risk factors in Indigenous violent victimisation’Australian Institute of Criminology, Record # 4486
This Australian paper reports on risk factors in Indigenous violent victimisation, aimed at informing responses to violent crime and programs to target offending and assisting victims. By establishing reliable predictive risk factors, the paper concludes it is possible to implement more effective and targeted preventative strategies, in particular localised strategies.
Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum report : breaking the chains - reclaiming our future
Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research 2007, ’Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum report : breaking the chains - reclaiming our future’ Central Queensland University, Rockhampton Qld, Record # 4139
This report outlines the proceedings of the “Breaking the chains – reclaiming our future” forum.
Report of the family violence prevention legal services conference, Cairns Queensland, 29, 30 and 31 October 2006
Australian Attorney-General's Dept. 2006, ‘Report of the family violence prevention legal services conference, Cairns Queensland, 29, 30 and 31 October 2006’, Australian Govt. Pub. Service, Canberra, Record # 4035
The Attorney-General’s Department funds 26 Family Violence Prevention Legal Services (FVPLS) around Australia, predominantly in remote and rural areas of high need. This report summarises papers presented at a 2006 conference on the future direction of the FVPLS program and associated training.
The Onkaparinga collective approach for the prevention of domestic violence and indigenous family violence
Ray M 2005 ‘The Onkaparinga collective approach for the prevention of domestic violence and indigenous family violence’, Noarlunga Health Services (S. Aust.), Adelaide, Record #3303
Outlines the framework of the Onkaparinga Collaborative Approach (OCA) for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Indigenous Family Violence, which is a collaborative approach to preventing domestic and family violence and has been operating in the Onkaparinga area of South Australia since 2001.
Indigenous family violence and sexual abuse: Considering pathways forward
Cripps K & McGlade H 2008, ‘Indigenous family violence and sexual abuse: Considering pathways forward', Journal of family studies, vol. 14 , no. 2-3, pp. 240-253, Record # 4431
This paper critically examines the international case study of the Community Holistic Circle Healing process developed by the community of Hollow Water, Canada. It analyses the program in its own context and reflects on the feasibility of its transference into the very different geographic, social, cultural, political and spiritual contexts of Australian Indigenous communities.
Aboriginal healing circle models addressing child sexual assault
Young M 2007, ‘Aboriginal healing circle models addressing child sexual assault’, Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal Health, Casuarina, NT, Record #4652
This report investigates a number of healing circle models developed by the Indigenous community in Canada and considers their application to the Australian Aboriginal context.
Are domestic violence courts working for Indigenous peoples?
Toki V 2009, 'Are domestic violence courts working for Indigenous peoples?’, Commonwealth Law Bulletin, vol. 35, no. 2, pp. 259-290, Record #4627
This article explores the over-representation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system in Canada and Australia, compared with the New Zealand experience. In order to reduce Maori offending rates, the author advocates a model which integrates tikanga Maori (Indigenous law), therapeutic jurisprudence and specialised domestic violence courts.
Partner violence prevalence among women attending a Maori health provider clinic
Koziol-McLain J, Rameka M, Giddings L, Fyfe E, & Gardiner J 2007, ‘Partner violence prevalence among women attending a Maori health provider clinic’, Australian and New Zealand journal of public health, vol. 31, no. 2, pp. 143-148, Record #4527
This article reports on a New Zealand study examining partner violence among women attending a Maori health provider clinic. The study examined the current circumstances of women and the prevalence of partner violence that they experience over their lifetime.
Amokura – an Indigenous violence prevention project
Grennell D 2005, 'Amokura – an Indigenous violence prevention project', Courageous practice in family violence – a call to action – the 2005 annual conference of National Network of Stopping Violence Services Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patung, 20 - 22 October 2005, Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre, Mt Wellington, Auckland, New Zealand Preventing Violence in the Home, Auckland, Record #3431
This paper describes the Amokura project, an integrated community change initiative to address family violence in Taitokerau in New Zealand (NZ).
Violence against American Indian women and the services-training-officers-prosecutors violence against Indian women (STOP VAIW) program
Luna-Firebaugh EM 2006, ‘Violence against American Indian women and the services-training-officers-prosecutors violence against Indian women (STOP VAIW) program’, Violence against women, vol. 12, no. 2, pp. 125-136, Record #3455
This article reports on the findings of a study undertaken to evaluate the program and approaches undertaken to protect tribal women from violence that were initiated by American Indian Tribal governments.
Li'l book of facts (and useful information): family violence
Aboriginal Family Violence Prevention and Legal Service (Vic.) 2007, ‘Li'l book of facts (and useful information): family violence’, Aboriginal Family Violence Prevention and Legal Service (Vic.), Melbourne, Record #3942
This booklet on family violence defines what violence is and the various forms of violence and abuse. It gives tips on what you can do and who you can contact if you are experiencing family violence, or advises you on what to do if it is happening to someone you know. It also provides a list of useful contacts in Victoria.
Pallert Tooree Larr : Bendigo and district Indigenous domestic and family violence program
Bendigo & District Indigenous Community; Annie North Inc.; Loddon Mallee Housing Service 2005, ‘Pallert Tooree Larr : Bendigo and district Indigenous domestic and family violence program’, Purple Kangaroo Consultants, Victoria Record # 2978
This is an information pamphlet for clients describing the Pallert Tooree Larr program in the Bendigo area of Victoria. The program has Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff, and offers support and transitional accommodation to Indigenous women and children who have experienced domestic and family violence.
Learning and respect : domestic violence
Skuthorpe T & National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect 2005, ’Learning and respect : domestic violence’, National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, Record # 2979
This poster uses the Aboriginal art of Tex Skulthorpe of the Noonghaburra people of North West NSW and depicts the teaching of respect between women and men.
Working and walking together: supporting family relationship services to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and organisations
Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care 2010, ‘Working and walking together: supporting family relationship services to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and organisations’, SNAICC, Fitzroy, Vic., Record #5339
This guide is designed to support non-Indigenous family relationship services to work in culturally appropriate ways with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and their communities. The publication features background information, helpful tips and principles for working with Indigenous families and organisations, plus case studies and a list of useful resources.
Through young black eyes workshop kit: activities and resources about preventing family violence, child abuse and child neglect
Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care Inc 2008, ‘Through young black eyes workshop kit : activities and resources about preventing family violence, child abuse and child neglect’, SNAICC Secretariat National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care, North Fitzroy, Record #4440
This kit provides information and resources for Indigenous communities interested in developing child-safe communities and addressing family violence. The kits assist communities to run workshops about family violence and to develop a child-safe community.
Through young black eyes : a guide for Indigenous community leaders to respond to family violence and child abuse
Moloney M, Bedford K, & Pocock J for the Secretariat National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care 2006, ‘Through young black eyes: a guide for Indigenous community leaders to respond to family violence and child abuse’, SNAICC Secretariat National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care, Northcote, Record #3654
This booklet was first produced in 2002 to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community leaders respond to the needs of children in their community at risk of family violence and/or neglect.
