Family violence prevention using workplaces as sites of intervention

Family or domestic violence is a major social issue affecting many Australian women. Since the 1970s, women's refuges have led the movement to bring about change in relation to this form of violence against women and children, and more recently, Australian governments and other community sector agencies have worked towards providing both services to support victims and programmes to prevent violence occurring. In Australia, as is the case internationally, workplaces are now emerging as sites for intervention and prevention in relation to family violence. Indeed, organisations and managers are becoming increasingly aware of the impacts of family violence on workers and workplaces, as well as the potential benefits of developing strategies to appropriately respond. In this article three models of family violence intervention and prevention through workplaces are discussed. Case studies from organisations and community agencies are drawn upon to illustrate the employer led, partnerships and union based models. Some key issues to promote successful implementation are identified and the need for evaluation with a consideration of safety issues is highlighted. It is concluded that there is great scope for managers and the business sector generally, to actively support the prevention of family violence through Australian workplaces, with direct economic as well as broader social benefits.