Family Violence Against Men

Family violence is a pervasive issue in Australia, affecting people of all genders, ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. While family violence against women rightfully receives significant attention, men are also victims of physical, psychological, emotional, financial and sexual abuse in their homes. This violence often goes unreported, most likely because of social stigma. This article looks at family violence against men in Australia, and the legal and social implications of this issue.

Defining family violence

The Family Law Act 1975 defines family violence as violent, threatening or coercive behaviour, and controlling actions that cause a family member to fear for their safety or well-being. While most often associated with male-perpetrated violence against women, family violence can also affect men in heterosexual, same-sex and other familial relationships. Family violence against men most often takes the form of:

• acts of physical aggression such as pushing, hitting, and slapping that is perpetrated by an intimate partner or other family member;
• psychological and emotional abuse such as constant manipulation, criticism, or humiliation, intended to erode the man’s self-esteem or independence;
• financial abuse such as controlling access to resources, forcing the man into debt or restricting employment opportunities;
• social isolation, including restricting a man’s contact with family, friends and support networks with an intent to increase dependency on their abuser; and
• legal and procedural abuse, such as using the family law system to disadvantage or harass a male partner, including making false allegations of abuse.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that 4.2 million adults have experienced partner violence in Australia. The survey highlighted the prevalence of violence against women, but noted that men are also victims, with 5.5% of surveyed men having experienced partner violence, 14% partner emotional abuse and 7.8% partner economic abuse. These statistics are also likely to be only a portion of the actual number, as men are less likely to report or even recognise when they are victims of family violence. Male victims are also more likely to experience less visible violence, such as emotional and financial abuse, the consequences of which can be equally damaging and long lasting. Family violence against men can have significant consequences on the victims, resulting in physical injuries, mental health issues (anxiety, depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation), financial distress and social isolation. 

Structural barriers to reporting

Male victims of family violence face structural obstacles to reporting abuse, accessing support and achieving justice. First, there is a general lack of community awareness of family violence against men, contributing to the invisibility of male victims and lack of understanding of their needs.

Second, traditional gender norms portray men as stoic providers and protectors, creating the false impression that men cannot be victims of abuse. Men are often reluctant to report abuse because they are unsure where to turn, fear they will not be believed, or worry about being perceived as weak or unmasculine. Male victims also complain that police services and the judiciary are less responsive to their complaints.

Third, family violence services in the community predominantly target female victims. Although most victims of family violence are women, historically the lack of community resources for male victims leaves them with fewer options. Fortunately, this reality is beginning to change, with specialised hotlines, such as MensLine Australia, and men’s advocacy groups such as One in Three Campaign which advocate for inclusive research, policies and services.

Legal protections for male victims

Australia has legal mechanisms in place to address family violence, irrespective of the victim’s gender:

1. Domestic Violence Orders

Anyone experiencing family violence can apply for a domestic violence order, also known as intervention orders or apprehended violence orders. Courts issue these orders to protect victims from abusers. Although male victims have historically faced challenges in obtaining these orders because of gender stereotypes, there is increasing court recognition that family violence is not restricted to a male-perpetrator and female/victim stereotype.

• Parenting disputes

Under the Family Law Act, family violence is a primary consideration in parenting disputes because of its lasting impacts on their emotional and psychological well-being. Courts are obligated to consider any evidence of violence in the home when determining a child’s best interests. This includes in cases where a male victim has experienced family violence which has affected children in their care, regardless of whether the source of the violence is the mother, a child, or other member of the household.

• Criminal law

Acts of family violence, including assault and coercive control, are criminal offences in Australia. Male victims can seek redress through the criminal justice system, though historically police have demonstrated a somewhat lacklustre response to reports of family violence against men.

Family violence against men in Australia is a serious yet often overlooked issue. The family law solicitors at Go To Court can provide advice about the legal options. Get in touch with our offices on 1300 636 846 today.