Domestic violence is a crime
Everyone has the right to be safe from abuse and fear.
Domestic violence refers to a wide range of abusive behaviours. It is “domestic” in nature if the perpetrator is a person who is associated with the victim. However, it is not limited to physical violence or confined to instances within the home.
Physical violence is just one aspect of domestic abuse and is not present in all cases. Domestic abuse can involve a wide range of abusive and controlling behaviour, including threats, harassment, financial control and emotional abuse. Victims often feel extremely isolated and it may take years for them to tell anyone what is happening to them.
Domestic abuse can include physical, psychological, emotional, financial or sexual abuse which takes place in a close relationship – usually between partners, ex-partners or family members. Domestic violence happens in all cultures; people of all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, ages and backgrounds can experience domestic abuse.