In New South Wales, concerns continue to mount over the pervasive impact of domestic and family violence, with new data highlighting the extent to which these issues affect the community. Recent reflections from Karen Bevan, chief executive officer of Full Stop Australia, underscore the urgency of addressing an issue that touches millions across the country.

According to Bevan, more than one in four women and one in eight men in Australia have experienced violence from an intimate partner or family member since the age of 15. This equates to an estimated 3.8 million adults who have been directly affected by domestic or family violence. Bevan emphasized that these statistics are not distant or abstract figures but represent people in every community, people who may be known to many Australians either as victims or perpetrators.

Full Stop Australia, which has been working to combat domestic and family violence for over five decades, stresses that policy reforms and law enforcement efforts, while critical, are insufficient on their own. Bevan calls for a broader approach that includes proper funding for support services and a cultural shift toward prevention that involves the entire community.

Preventive measures, she notes, begin with maintaining close connections with those around us, offering support when someone withdraws, and responding with empathy and belief when disclosures of violence occur. Bevan underlines the importance of treating conversations about domestic violence as immediate and relevant, given its widespread incidence.

Bevan also addressed survivors of such violence directly, affirming that they are not alone and encouraging them to seek help. She highlighted the availability of free, confidential 24/7 specialist counselling through Full Stop Australia’s helpline at 1800 FULL STOP (1800 385 578) and online chat services.

The remarks from Full Stop Australia come amid ongoing efforts across Australia to raise awareness, provide support, and ultimately reduce the prevalence of domestic and family violence, a challenge that remains deeply embedded in the social fabric of communities nationwide.