Abstract
This presentation explores domestic and family violence (DFV) within Australian military families, examining the policy landscape, structural power dynamics, and implications for social work and human services education, research, and practice. It aligns with the symposium’s overarching theme of building solidarity and inclusion amid socio-political turbulence, addressing sub-theme 6: the political and policy context.
Basis of Presentation:
The presentation draws on a critical literature review, synthesising empirical research from international and Australian studies, analyses of policy frameworks, and evaluations of practical interventions in military contexts. The review identifies both effective strategies and persistent gaps in current responses.
Key Message and Findings:
Despite national policy frameworks and investment, DFV remains prevalent in Australian military households. Key drivers include gendered power imbalances, militarised masculinity, and economic dependencies intensified by relocations and disrupted employment. Civilian women partners and their children disproportionately bear the burden. Institutional responses, although improving, remain fragmented and often overlook economic empowerment strategies and insights gained from lived experiences. Researchers and practitioners with military knowledge offer vital understanding and strategies to address DFV effectively within this insular environment, especially amid escalating geopolitical tensions and instability. Addressing DFV aligns with social work and human services roles, reinforcing government priorities around resilience, productivity, and security. Failing to tackle DFV poses serious risks to Australia’s defence capability, workforce participation, and productivity, compromising preparedness for future national emergencies. These findings highlight the need for policy reform informed by lived experiences and structural approaches that strengthen economic independence, portable careers, and accessible childcare.
Basis of Presentation:
The presentation draws on a critical literature review, synthesising empirical research from international and Australian studies, analyses of policy frameworks, and evaluations of practical interventions in military contexts. The review identifies both effective strategies and persistent gaps in current responses.
Key Message and Findings:
Despite national policy frameworks and investment, DFV remains prevalent in Australian military households. Key drivers include gendered power imbalances, militarised masculinity, and economic dependencies intensified by relocations and disrupted employment. Civilian women partners and their children disproportionately bear the burden. Institutional responses, although improving, remain fragmented and often overlook economic empowerment strategies and insights gained from lived experiences. Researchers and practitioners with military knowledge offer vital understanding and strategies to address DFV effectively within this insular environment, especially amid escalating geopolitical tensions and instability. Addressing DFV aligns with social work and human services roles, reinforcing government priorities around resilience, productivity, and security. Failing to tackle DFV poses serious risks to Australia’s defence capability, workforce participation, and productivity, compromising preparedness for future national emergencies. These findings highlight the need for policy reform informed by lived experiences and structural approaches that strengthen economic independence, portable careers, and accessible childcare.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Number of pages | 2 |
| Publication status | Published - 20 Nov 2025 |
| Event | Australian & New Zealand Social Work & Welfare Education & Research - Western Sydney University , Parramatta , Australia Duration: 19 Nov 2025 → 21 Nov 2025 Conference number: 14th https://www.anzswwer.org/ |
Conference
| Conference | Australian & New Zealand Social Work & Welfare Education & Research |
|---|---|
| Abbreviated title | ANZSWWER |
| Country/Territory | Australia |
| City | Parramatta |
| Period | 19/11/25 → 21/11/25 |
| Internet address |
Keywords
- domestic and family violence
- military families
- Australia
