The Australian Institute of Family Studies has been involved in reviewing literature and conducting research related to issues of family violence and sexual assault in Indigenous communities in Australia. In particular, the focus of two studies has been to evaluate community development initiatives directed at supporting communities and addressing some of the risk factors associated with violence in Indigenous communities, as well as improving the response to children who are removed from their care of their parents due to abuse and neglect. The presentation draws on a broad range of Institute materials and national data. Indigenous communities are over-represented in national statistics of family violence and sexual assaults, including child abuse and neglect. For example, the rate of children removed from the care of their parents is more than five-times that of non-Indigenous Australians. Researchers and commentators have identified factors that contribute to rates of violence in Indigenous communities, including the ongoing impact of colonisation (the \"stolen generation\" and its impact on loss of cultural knowledge, parenting skills and community support), economic and social disadvantage, poor educational and vocational opportunities, and the precipitating factors of alcohol and substance misuse. A number of major reports have appeared documenting the extent of the problem, as well as the difficulties faced in Indigenous communities, including the problems in way that family violence and sexual assault is dealt with by child protection, law enforcement and criminal justice systems. It is important to listen to the voices of Indigenous communities, and hear not only the pain, but also the hope that exists. Examples of culturally appropriate practices in preventing and responding to violence and abuse are discussed as the cornerstone of building community capacity in order to prevent violence and improve health and wellbeing of Indigenous children, families and communities.
Conflict of Interest: None disclosed
Financial Support/Funding: Australian Government Department Of Families, Community Services And Indigenous Affairs - Through The Australian Council For Children And Parenting
Sydney Australia, April 2007
