Our centres
1 in 4 children experience domestic violence in Australia*
These children are the hidden victims who are being impacted emotionally, physically and mentally.
The impact of domestic violence on children can last a lifetime
Children have the right to grow up without violence. Yet, in Australia, high rates of domestic violence expose thousands of children daily. Most children in Barnardos care have experienced violence at home. Our research report shows this exposure has lasting, devastating effects on children with up to 88% of child victims of DFV having suffered life-long psychological distress as a result of their experiences.
At a 36% greater risk of depression, a 49% greater risk of experiencing anxiety, and an almost 60% greater risk of self-harming behaviours.
Twice as likely to be diagnosed with a substance use disorder.
Almost five times more likely to receive a mental health service by the time they reached 18 years of age (79% versus 16%).
At greatest risk of homelessness due to Domestic and Family Violence.
How Barnardos helps
Barnardos helps children and young people impacted by domestic violence to recover and thrive. We assist women and children escaping domestic violence with safe housing, counseling, education and practical support. We ensure children’s education that may have been disrupted by violence at home is supported through before and after school programs. Our youth services give young people a safe place to be themselves, share their story and build their trust of others and belief in themselves again.
Safety planning
Transitional accommodation
Home visiting
Parenting support
Youth programs
DV education and counseling
DV Support groups
DV Phone support
Safety planning
Transitional accommodation
Home visiting
Parenting support
Youth programs
DV education and counseling
DV Support groups
DV Phone support
Our programs
We assist women and children escaping domestic violence with safe housing, counseling, education and practical support.
Advocacy
We want to work with the NSW government to support families sooner rather than later.
Because every child needs a champion
Together, with your help, we can support children and young people to heal from the damaging effects of domestic violence, so they can find the hope and strength they need to recover and thrive.
Share our
government asks
Push politicians to do more to help children experiencing domestic violence by sharing our government asks. Tag your local MP for added impact.
Donate
By donating to Barnardos you can help children and young people impacted by domestic violence rebuild their lives.
Learn more
For more information about the real yet often hidden effects of domestic violence on children, download our latest research report.
Myths and facts about Domestic and Family Violence
Click on the myth cards below to learn the facts.
Myth
Domestic violence is physical violence
Fact
Domestic violence is not always physical. Domestic and family violence can involve any behaviours that makes you feel scared, attempt to control you, involve threats to you and/or your children, and deny you choice or freedom.
Myth
Children who ‘witness’ DFV in their home are not harmed
Fact
Children are not ‘witnesses’ of DFV, they are victims and they can be seriously harmed by DFV even if they are not physically abused.
Myth
Children can overcome any negative effects they may experience from DFV
Fact
DFV can have major impacts on children, some of which continue into adulthood. Many children who have experienced DFV develop lifelong psychological, physical and emotional impacts.
Myth
Anyone can leave a domestic violence situation
Fact
It is not always safe to leave a domestic violence situation at any moment. There is an increased risk of harm or death when leaving so the timing is usually carefully planned. It is not ok to judge a person for staying in their DV situation. Ultimately, of course it is best to escape the situation, but this can take time and careful planning, especially when there are children involved.
*Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse 2011 – The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children: A Literature Review
If you experience any distress while reading the content on this page and would like to speak to a professional, please contact your health practitioner (such as your GP or a professional counsellor) or call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
