skip to content

Refine results

Search by

Search by Algolia
     

    What is family violence?

    For the purposes of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), family violence is any violent, threatening or other behaviour by a person that coerces or controls a member of the person's family or causes the family member fear [s 4AB].

    It sets out the following range of examples:

    • an assault
    • a sexual assault or other sexually abusive behaviour
    • stalking
    • repeated derogatory taunts
    • intentionally damaging or destroying property
    • intentionally causing injury or death to an animal
    • economic or financial abuse
    • preventing the family member from making or keeping connections with their family, friends or culture
    • unlawfully depriving a family member of their liberty.

    Economic or financial abuse of a family member might include [s 4AB(2A)]:

    • unreasonably denying the family member financial autonomy by, for example, controlling their money or assets, sabotaging their employment or income, forcing them to take on a financial liability, or accumulating debt in their name
    • unreasonably withholding financial support needed to meet reasonable living expenses
    • dowry abuse.

    The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia has put together a video titled What is family violence?

    In an emergency: 000

    For police attendance: 131 444

    Domestic Violence Crisis Line: 1800 800 098

    1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732

    What is family violence?  :  Last Revised: Wed Jun 11th 2025
    The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.

    We embrace diversity and welcome all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.


    South Australia flag     Aboriginal icon     Torres Straight icon     LGBT icon     Disability icon   Disability icon

    Legal Services acknowledges Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and ongoing occupants of the lands and waters in South Australia and we respect their spiritual, cultural and heritage beliefs. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community and pay our deep respect to Elders past and present.

           Connect with us

    • Facebook icon
    • Twitter icon
    • YouTube
    • LinkedIn