Understanding Family and Domestic Violence

This evidence-based infographic examines how both men and women contribute to the problem of family and domestic violence in Australia. Drawing on data from the ABS Personal Safety Survey, AIHW, NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics, ANROWS, and the Our Watch Change the Story framework, it presents a balanced overview of direct perpetration patterns, harmful attitudes, and bystander behaviours across genders. While research clearly shows that men are more commonly perpetrators of severe violence and intimate partner homicide, the infographic highlights that preventing family violence requires understanding how everyone in our community contributes—whether through direct violence, holding attitudes that excuse or minimise abuse, reinforcing rigid gender stereotypes, or staying silent when witnessing disrespect. It concludes with actionable steps we can all take to address the gendered drivers of violence and create lasting change.