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This page covers topics related to domestic violence that some people may find confronting, distressing, or triggering.

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In short:

It’s never ok, but too many nurses and midwives experience family violence, the trauma of which can be triggered in the workplace. If you need support there are services that offer advice, crisis care, or a safe place to talk. And as an employee you have access to paid family and domestic violence.

Domestic and family violence is one of the most serious social and public health issues facing communities across Australia.

What is domestic and family violence

Domestic and family violence is the repeated use of violence, threatening, coercive or controlling behaviours between people in a family, carer relationship, domestic or intimate relationship, or former intimate relationship. This may include carers. Domestic and family violence is a problem in Australian society. 

There are different types of abuse – not always physical. Abuse is a pattern of behaviour, to gain power and control.

No matter what your relationship to someone is, sexual, domestic, or family violence is never OK.

If you are experiencing violence or abuse you can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for support. This program offers free, 24/7 support for people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence.

Partner abuse in the homes of nurses and midwives

In 2019, the ANMF Victorian Branch commissioned research to find out about the prevalence of family violence in our homes. It found alarming rates of partner abuse experienced by our colleagues in the profession. The research, led by Dr Elizabeth (Liz) McLindon, involved more than 11,500 nurses and midwives.

Impact of domestic and family violence on nurses and midwives

Survivor nurses and midwives were found to be two to three times more likely to experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, or consume alcohol at harmful levels.

Yet only around one in four people who have experienced violence in the last 12 months will access a community-based service.

Our workplaces present additional challenges, with occupational violence and aggression a common experience for many health professionals. This can trigger trauma responses and heighten the impact of family violence. Survivor nurses and midwives may need additional support in their workplace to feel safe and continue their recovery.

No matter where you are in Australia, support is available. We’ve compiled a list of services that provide confidential help to those experiencing family or domestic violence, or who are concerned about their own behaviour. 

Support services

These services offer a safe place to turn, whether you need advice, crisis care, or someone to talk to who understands.

1800RESPECT – Free, confidential information, counselling, and support for people impacted by domestic, family, or sexual violence. Available 24/7,
Services Australia – Information, referrals, and support for people affected by family and domestic violence.
Relationships Australia – Support for building positive and respectful relationships.
White Ribbon – National and state-specific helplines for those seeking support.
MensLine Australia – Free telephone and online counselling service offering support for men in Australia. Available 24/7.
Elder Abuse Phone Line – A national gateway for state-based services offering information, support, and referrals for concerns about elder abuse.

Family and domestic violence leave

As an employee you are entitled to 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave each year. It is the same for full-time, part-time and casual employees. It’s a paid minimum leave entitlement, like annual leave or paid sick and carer’s leave. Talk to your manager or your HR contact and or a union delegate or go to FairWork: family and domestic violence leave.

Stopping and preventing it – what we can do

Domestic and family violence is not inevitable. It is preventable if we join to raise awareness, and challenge myths and assumptions that perpetuate violence and create a more equal and inclusive society. 

Some of the ways we can do this include:

promoting women’s independence and decision making
challenging gender stereotypes and roles
strengthening positive, equal and respectful relationships.

You’re not alone

If you're a nurse, midwife or student and you have experienced or are currently experiencing family violence, our program can provide information and peer support to help you move toward greater safety and to start or continue your recovery journey.

Contact us