Director’s message

The last quarter has seen some very significant developments in our collective efforts to stop domestic and family violence. On the 29th April, the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, in the presence of the Minister for Women, Tanya Plibersek and the Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, was presented with Time for Action: The National Council’s Plan for Australia to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children. The National Council’s vision for Australia is that women and their children live free from violence, within respectful relationships and in safe communities. The plan was developed within a human rights framework and incorporated an intersectional analysis, recognizing that women’s experiences of violence are shaped by gender and other factors, such as racial oppression, which must be considered in addressing the violence. The PM responded to the presentation of Time for Action with:

· a commitment to take the National Council’s Plan to the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) to enlist the support and collaboration of the states and territories to develop the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women, for release in 2010;

· agreement to immediately implement eleven of 20 urgent priorities identified by the National Council, consult with the states and territories on seven and consider the remaining two in the context of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women; and

· funding of approximately $42 million to implement a number of initiatives identified by the National Council as urgent priorities.

This is not the first attempt at national collaboration, across federal, state and territory governments, to address violence against women. In 1992, Paul Keating, then Prime Minister, was presented with the National Strategy on Violence against Women, developed by a national committee comprised of community members and government officials from the commonwealth and every state and territory. Although the 1992 strategy was not used directly as a resource for producing Time for Action, the broad similarity on issues to be addressed is not at all surprising. These include re-constructing notions of masculinity, enabling women’s economic independence, collective community responsibility, ensuring justice responses are accessible and equitable and an implementation process to involve COAG. Time for Action, however, has had the benefit of an additional 17 years of sector activity resulting in a broader base of awareness about, and willingness to act on, violence against women; a stronger evidence base to draw from; and substantial resources enabling extensive research and consultation to develop 25 strategies and 117 actions to achieve six outcomes. There has also been a substantial increase in the number of grass-roots activists in this field who have taken positions in parliaments across the country, including in Canberra. Time for Action: The National Council’s Plan for Australia to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children is discussed in more detail on page 5.

In 1992, when the National Strategy was presented to Paul Keating, the current Queensland Minister for Communities and Housing and Minister for Women, Karen Struthers, was the director of the state-wide Domestic Violence Resource Centre. The Queensland Premier, Anna Bligh, was a senior policy officer in the Women’s Policy Unit, Office of Cabinet, responsible for developing the Queensland Government policy: Stop violence against women. Now, 17 years later in a joint statement on the 25th May, the Premier and the Minister announced the establishment of an expert Death Review Panel to identify gaps in services for victims of domestic and family violence and to prevent further deaths in the future. This announcement came after a number of years of dedicated work by the Queensland Domestic Violence Death Review Action Group (DVDRAG), which is discussed by Betty Taylor on page 15. CDFVR congratulates the DVDRAG and the Queensland Government on this announcement.

Front cover photo: Tapim Dancers-Segur Kab Inside this issue

Director’s message...... 1 Centre news: Forum -The big picture - Putting the pieces together...... 2 Policy initiative: Time for Action...... 5 Evidence based practice: RPL tool ...... 7 Database highlights: Children exposed to domestic violence...... 9 Research summary: Problem sexual behaviour in children...... 11 Policy initiatives: Dying to be heard...... 15 Resource review: Putting youth in the picture...... 17 Workshops and date claimers ...... 18 Centre news

6th Annual Indigenous family violence prevention forum - The big picture – Putting the pieces together By Annie Webster, Education Project Officer, CDFVR A record 160 participants attended the 6th Annual Stephen Hagan Indigenous Family Violence Prevention Forum at The controversial title of the Mackay Entertainment Centre from May 11 to Steve’s presentation ‘Are 13. The forum, CDFVR’s contribution to Domestic Indigenous men and Family Violence Prevention Month, also included homogeneous?’ was an optional third day of skills development workshops designed to challenge this year, attended by 107 participants. In response societal positioning on to the 2008 forum evaluation, this year’s forum had domestic and family a strong emphasis on healing, leadership and violence. Steve discussed community information sharing. Information on drugs the power of observational and alcohol, perpetrator programs and men’s groups learning and the were also included in the program which included importance of role models keynote speakers, plenary panels, yarning circles within families. To and film presentations. The increasing numbers of demonstrate his commitment to this stance, Steve interstate participants over the years prompted recounted a story of his decision to stop letting CDFVR Director, Heather Nancarrow, to announce extended family stay in his home to assure his own the introduction of a national forum to be held family’s safety. He talked about the failure of political triennially, commencing in 2010, in partnership with figures to adequately address the plight of Indigenous the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait women and challenged the forum to prioritise the Islander Studies and others. 12 Critical Areas of Concern for Women, identified in the Plan for Action adopted at the fourth World Keynote addresses: Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995. Steve Keynote addresses were presented by Stephen dismissed violence perpetrated in communities under Hagan, 2006 Naidoc person of the year, academic the guise of traditional lore as “conveniently and social commentator; Peter Buckland, Regional misinterpreted” and maintained it should be replaced Director, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander with the “full weight of Western law.” Steve concluded Partnership, Mackay/Whitsunday Region of his presentation with the hope that the National Department of Communities; and Kerrie Tim, Council’s Plan to Reduce Violence against Women Indigenous Leadership and Engagement, and their Children, Time for Action will help Department of Families, Housing, Community Indigenous women and their children who suffer Services and Indigenous Affairs. from abuse to find peace and happiness in a violent free and loving home environment. – to build their families and their communities. She Peter Buckland spoke about the widespread mistruths about how Peter’s task was to boys are best raised – messages from influential explain the Queensland arms of society – armed forces and criminal justice Government’s alcohol systems and asserted, “If we want big lives for our reforms within Indigenous men and boys, we have to change, to change the communities. In voices.” Kerrie closed by advising her audience to, response to insufficient “Take the smallest amount of encouragement, and improvement in relation use it.” to alcohol-related harm, the government reviewed There were three plenary panels at this year’s forum. the need to strengthen: The first panel, Working toward healing included supply and demand speakers Tom Powell from Red Dust Healing and reduction, individual, Dorinda Cox from Aboriginal Healing Project in family and community, and service provision. The Western Australia. Tom stated that it was now men’s rationale for imposing restrictions was based on turn to stand up – to stop the violence and lead the “where there are high levels of harm there should healing. Dorinda outlined her pilot project which be alcohol restrictions.” The decision-making process aims to decrease violence in Aboriginal communities. took into account a range of input from communities The project uses a community development model both formal (through councils and community justice based on collectivism – using expertise from within groups) and informal (from community visits). It also the community, rather than bringing in experts. included feedback from stakeholders and key departments (for example, Queensland Police The second panel, Community perspectives on the Service). In early 2009 carriage limits were tightened alcohol management plan was designed to give in Hope Vale and Yarrabah and in response to participants some feedback on how the Alcohol community proposals, in Pormpuraaw and Management Plans are working in communities such Doomadgee. After considerable consultation, as Pormpuraaw and Fitzroy Crossing. Kurt Nobel, carriage limits were also introduced in Cherbourg in from Pormpuraaw Healing Centre discussed the March this year. Over $100 million has been effects of the Alcohol Management Plan on his committed by state and federal governments over community. His community imposed the alcohol the next four years to support the implementation of restrictions themselves in 2003 so used funding for alcohol reforms. Alcohol restrictions in communities new restrictions to establish a rehabilitation centre, will be monitored for effectiveness by quarterly which will be opened in July this year. Kurt talked ministerial discussions, reports, and review triggers about the need for a raft of measures when imposing such as a reduction in violence, child protection alcohol management plans, not just the removal of substantiation and improved school attendance. alcohol. Peter ended his presentation by saying that “The right to drink is not a United Nations enshrined right, June Oscar from Marninwarntikura Fitzroy Women’s but the rights of women and children to be safe are.” Resource Centre in Fitzroy Crossing, WA discussed the opposition and stress suffered by her and her Kerrie Tim friend Emily Carter as they led the campaign for a Kerrie spoke about ban on the sale of takeaway alcohol that has leadership and the dramatically cut health and social problems in Fitzroy importance of facing Crossing. The campaign, which was community up to violence and driven, has led to a 43% reduction in the incidence doing something about of alcohol-related domestic violence, a reduction in it. She talked about foetal alcohol spectrum disorder and a halving in the leadership the number of people seeking emergency health program that she assistance due to alcohol related injuries. manages and the broad definition of Leadership – journeys and aspirations was the third what leadership is, panel of the forum and followed Kerrie Tim’s giving the example, leadership address. Jackie Huggins, from the “Leadership is about making the decision to send Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit, your children to school.” The leadership program University of Queensland, and a member of the employs a model that works on all levels. It is CDFVR Reference Group led this panel with Karen sustainable because it fosters a lifetime commitment Woodley, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander to getting the best life possible. Men were asked to Partnerships and Bill Lowah, Queensland Shelter. bring their skills from the world back into the family Themes arising included: the importance of self-care; the need to prioritise when demands Queensland, particularly in rural and remote exceed time available; the importance of serving an communities; Heather Nancarrow and Dorinda Cox’s apprenticeship as a leader; the requirement for hard overview of the National Plan to Reduce Violence work; sacrifice and talent; the need to stay connected Against Women and their Children; and filmmaker to your mob; role models to ensure a progression Vincent Lamberti and film participant and researcher of leaders; the courage to make a difference; Audrey McCormack’s screening of ‘Intervention’, a creativity, enthusiasm and passion to embrace short film about the impact of the Northern Territory change. Details of the two yarning sessions Intervention. convened at the forum can be found on CDFVR’s website www.noviolence.com.au. This year’s forum dinner and karaoke had the highest attendance rate of our six forums with 130 The optional third day of skills development participants. There was much dancing and queuing workshops included two half-day presentations. up to sing! Liz and Shirley from Mt. Isa showed H.E.L.P.P. (Help Ease Life’s Parenting Pressure) what consistent karaoke attendance can do for your was adapted from the Parents Under Pressure singing standard and Deon made sure that none of program by Gindaja Substance Misuse Aboriginal the men missed out on contributing to the Corporation in Yarrabah as a more culturally celebrations. Once again Lillian Gray was not to be appropriate model for Indigenous communities. It outdone with her rendition of ‘These boots are made was presented by Thelma Richards, from Gindaja, for walkin’. Moana Harlen from Griffith University and Paul Harnett from University of Queensland. The second Thank you to all who travelled from around Australia workshop, Red Dust Healing, a specific cultural to contribute their stories, ideas and hopes for a healing program based on ancient and traditional future free from domestic and family violence. We philosophy, was delivered by Randal Ross and Tom look forward to an even bigger and better national Powell. forum next year so please keep May 18, 19 and 20 in 2010 free. Other forum highlights included: Chris Cunneen’s paper discussing recommendations and findings A detailed report of the forum, including the evaluation from recent research into the use of domestic violence is available on CDFVR’s website protection orders by Indigenous women in www.noviolence.com.au. Policy initiatives Time for Action: The National Council’s Plan for Australia to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children. By Heather Nancarrow, Director, CDFVR Introduction · commissioned research, through the The Australian Government established the National Department of Families and Housing, Council to Reduce Violence against Women and Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, to their Children (the support: Council) in May 2008, fulfilling o a comparative analysis of sexual assault one of its 2007 and domestic and family violence laws election across jurisdictions, and commitments. o a projected economic analysis The Council was established for a · reviewed the 370 public submissions to the one-year term to: Council provide expert · undertook preliminary research to identify current advice and major initiatives to address sexual assault and direction to the domestic and family violence across Australia Australian Government on · convened six expert round–table forums measures to reduce the · delivered presentations to key government and non-government fora, and prevalence and effect of sexual · briefed a number of federal, state and territory assault and ministers, and representatives of the domestic and family violence on victims; consult federal opposition. widely across government and the community in the development of the plan; and provide leadership for Policy context sustaining change in the identification of best practice While women and girls experience violence in a policy, program and service development which will wide range of contexts, it is intimate partner abuse prevent violence against women and their children. (also referred to as domestic and family violence) and sexual assault that are the most prevalent and The Council comprised the following 11 members pervasive human rights abuses against women in from across Australia, selected for their collective Australia. Approximately one in three Australian expertise and networks relevant to the prevention women will experience physical violence and almost of domestic and family violence and sexual assault: one in five will experience sexual violence over their Libby Lloyd AM (Chair), Heather Nancarrow (Deputy lifetimes. This violence has serious consequences Chair), Assoc. Prof. Moira Carmody, Dorinda Cox, for the health and well-being of women and their Maria Dimopoulos, Dr Melanie Heenan, Rachel children and serious economic and social costs for Kayrooz, Andrew O’Keefe, Vanessa Swan, the broader Australian community. Pauline Woodbridge, and Lisa Wilkinson. An economic analysis commissioned for the work In developing its plan of action, members of the of the National Council found that the cost of violence Council consulted over 2,000 Australians. The against women and their children will be $13.6 billion Council: in 2009 and, without appropriate remedial action this figure will climb to an estimated $15.2 billion · conducted interviews, on-line surveys and per annum by 2021. community meetings with a range of stakeholders in all state and territory capital As discussed in the Director’s Message of this cities, and some regional and remote edition, Time for Action has the benefit of many centres, including the Torres Strait, Fitzroy years of advocacy in this area, including the 1992 Crossing, and the five communities at the tip National Strategy on Violence against Women. of the Cape York Peninsula · commissioned a desktop analysis of key This advocacy has led to very substantial Australian and international research on developments in every jurisdiction across the country. sexual assault and domestic and family violence The Council’s work to identify current major initiatives to address sexual assault and domestic and family To achieve these six outcomes, Time for Action violence across Australia found that all states and identifies a total of 25 strategies, and 117 actions to territories have implemented, or are in the process be implemented by 2021. The fundamental of implementing cross-department, inter-agency approaches upon which Time for Action is built responses to domestic and family violence and include: sexual assault. However, they vary in regard to the inclusion of non-government partners in these · focus on primary prevention, through respectful responses. Some have specific actions and assign relationships education beginning in early particular agencies as drivers, while others are less childhood and social marketing to change structured and operate within broader parameters attitudes and behaviour encompassing a shared intent. Currently, there appears to be no mechanisms in place for monitoring · building the capacity for prevention education and evaluating these developments. · enhancing women’s economic independence The National Council notes that funding, service · strengthening service and workforce capacity provision and legislation varies considerably across jurisdictions. It also notes, however, that policy · undertaking specific responses to ensure commitments are reasonably uniform and there are equitable access to services including accessible many similarities in the way jurisdictions respond to and equitable justice for women and their violence against women. This suggests there is children ample scope for increased collaboration between · ensuring just civil remedies operate in parallel the Commonwealth, states and territories to with the criminal law and prioritise safety implement a truly national approach to reducing violence against women and their children. · ensuring judicial officers, law enforcement personnel and other professionals within the As a result of its research and consultation, the legal system have appropriate knowledge and National Council found that the major constraints expertise to respond effectively to violence on achieving a significant reduction of violence against women against women and their children are: fragmented systems, gaps between policy intent and · changing behaviour to stop men’s violence implementation, a failure to invest in primary through appropriate programs prevention, inadequate funding for services, services not tailored to client needs, continued lack of evidence · ensuring governments deliver what communities for what works in preventing and responding to need, rather than communities trying to fit their violence against women, and inadequate or funding needs into government guidelines inconsistent monitoring and reporting. · coordinating responses across all levels of government, as well as across agencies at a Time for Action framework local level, and The National Council’s vision for Australia is that · continuing to build the evidence base to support women and their children live free from violence, the achievement of each of the six outcomes. within respectful relationships and in safe communities. Based on this vision and its collective In addition to its proposed 25 strategies and 117 expertise, extensive consultation, and research, the specific actions, and in support of its plan, the Council is resolute that the following six outcomes National Council made 11 recommendations directly are necessary for any significant reduction in violence to the Australian Government. Within these, and against women. noting that 20 actions are identified as requiring urgent implementation, the National Council These outcomes are: recommends that its plan of action be implemented through a series of three-year implementation plans 1. Communities are safe and free from violence to 2021. These implementation plans are “to be developed in partnership with government, business 2. Relationships are respectful and the community, built on research and evaluation, 3. Services meet the needs of women and their and that will incorporate the outcomes of measures children already implemented” (p. 25). The Council further recommends “that the Australian Government 4. Responses are just recognise the critical role of state and territory governments in reducing violence against women 5. Perpetrators stop their violence and their children; that it refer the Plan of Action to COAG (Council of Australian Governments); and 6. Systems work together effectively request that COAG develop an integrated, comprehensive response endorsed by all levels of · Work with states and territories to establish a government by early 2010” (p. 26). National Centre of Excellence for the Prevention of Violence against Women; and The Australian Government’s response · Consider the place of violence in the National Time for Action was presented to the Prime Minister, Research Priorities. Kevin Rudd, in the presence of the Minister for The $42 million comprises $12.5 million for a national Women, Tanya Plibersek; the Attorney-General, telephone and on-line crisis service, $17 million for Robert McClelland; members of the National social marketing to change attitudes and behaviours, Council; and staff and students of Narrabundah $9 million for respectful relationships education for College in Canberra. In response to the young people, and $3 million for research on recommendations and urgent actions identified in perpetrator programs and harmonised laws. Time for Action, the Prime Minister announced that the Australian Government will, from 2009: Conclusion

· Fund a $42 million package for urgent priorities Within a period of less than one year since its · Take Time for Action to COAG and work with establishment, the National Council to Reduce state and territory governments to develop a Violence against Women and their Children delivered National Plan by 2010 a thoroughly researched, comprehensive, strategic and sustainable plan of action and the Australian · Work through the Standing Committee of Government responded with an unprecedented level Attorneys-General to establish a scheme for of commitment to its implementation. However, national registration of domestic violence much more needs to be done and we all have a role protection orders, and to identify the most to play. The first step is to read Time for Action and effective methods to investigate and prosecute think about what you and your colleagues can do, sexual assault individually and collectively, towards achieving the Council’s vision. Further, state and territory · Develop a multi-disciplinary training package governments need to get on board through COAG for lawyers, judicial officers and others in the to enable the promise held within the National family law system Council’s plan and the Australian Government’s initial response, to be fully realised. Talk with your · Ask the Australian Law Reform Commission to local member of parliament and let relevant ministers work with state and territory law reform and the premier know it is time for action. commissions to examine the inter-relationship of federal, state and territory laws and ensure A copy of Time for Action can be downloaded by visiting they prioritise safety for women and children http://www.fahcsia.gov.au/sa/women/pubs/violence/np_time _for_action/national_plan/Pages/default.aspx · Establish a Violence Against Women Advisory Group to advise on the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women Evidence based practice Recognition of prior learning: Course in responding to family and domestic violence (30629QLD) By Tracey Acton, RPL Consultant to CDFVR A new and innovative recognition of prior learning Research into existing best practice approaches to (RPL) toolkit will soon be available for the Course RPL in Queensland and beyond (Spencer 2006; in Responding to Domestic and Family Violence NCVER 2003; Cameron & Miller 2004; Hargreaves (30629QLD). The RPL toolkit has been designed to 2006; Spencer 2009) indicates that the intention of support both assessors and students with a thorough providing a way for people to gain recognition for but user-friendly approach to the entire RPL process. existing skills and knowledge is often undermined It is hoped that the RPL toolkit will become the tool by a generic or underdeveloped approach to RPL. of choice for registered training organisations (RTOs) This approach places burdensome evidence and assessors throughout Queensland, resulting in collection on the student, and is undirected or not consistency between those completing the course clearly connected to what it is the student is trying and those receiving recognition for prior learning. to demonstrate. The process at best becomes meaningless and at worst alienates the student from completing the RPL application. Current practice promotes the use of a variety of · A list of Assessment Questions has been assessment tools including conversations or developed for the assessor to use in evidence- interviews to provide valuable evidence, gathering conversations. supplemented by other documentation. The challenge in developing an RPL tool is to adequately The student RPL toolkit capture the process of evidence collection. This Students are given information about the RPL process toolkit meets that challenge by being a well directed as well as evidence gathering tools. There are resource that maps evidence to competencies and questions to assist students determine if they have provides mechanisms for assessors to document enough evidence to seek RPL. Once students have evidence collection and assessment decisions in a made the decision to apply for RPL for one or more rigorous way. units of the course, the toolkit provides students with The toolkit has been developed through consultation the resources they need to guide their evidence with members of the domestic and family violence collection. prevention sector as well as those with a vocational education and training perspective. Industry Students undertaking an RPL process can sometimes consultation provided the opportunity to engage with struggle to make links between what is described in the sector through identification of possible forms of the unit of competency and what evidence may evidence typical to the sector and allowed demonstrate this sufficiently. The student section of participation in the development, moderation and the RPL toolkit provides suggestions of potential validation of the first version of the RPL toolkit. Ideas evidence, sourced from the sector, mapped against generated through this process were also validated what this evidence is likely to demonstrate so students against the Australian Quality Training Framework can see the link between what they provide and how (AQTF) requirements and the rules of evidence. it can demonstrate that they are competent. This is The resulting RPL toolkit has been divided into two combined with a series of evidence gathering sections: one for the assessor and one for the assessment tools which includes: a general portfolio, student. an assessment conversation, a reflective practice journal, a practice framework statement, workplace The assessor toolkit scenarios and third party reports, all of which The assessor section contains information, tools supplement documentation provided by the student. and resources to enable the assessor to judge the evidence provided by the student and determine if The RPL toolkit will be integrated into the existing the criteria are met for one or course materials which are available from the Centre more of the units in the for Training Materials for purchase by trainers and course. The assessor can registered training organisations. Once the RPL adapt the resources for use toolkit is in use, it will be reviewed and updated as in specific circumstances required to ensure a dynamic and useful resource where flexibility is required to for the sector. We expect the toolkit to be available offer a relevant approach to very soon. each learner, while still providing full documentation of the assessment process References as the assessor compares Spencer, BA 2006, ‘A common sense, client centred approach evidence against the criteria in S McKenna & J Mitchell RPL- Done well in VET, viewed 19 and comes to a decision. November 2008, www.reframingthefuture.net/docs/2007/Publications/3EVP_ For each unit of 30629QLD, the Assessor Toolkit RPL_Done_Well_1mar07.pdf contains: NCVER 2003, Recognition of prior learning in the vocational education and training sector, Available at · An Assessor Evidence Mapping Guide where http://ncver.edu.au/teaching/publications/1342.html evidence is mapped directly against elements and performance criteria for each unit. Cameron, S & Miller, P 2004, RPL: Why has it failed to act as a mechanism for social change? · Based on current best practice RPL across http://epubs.scu.edu.au/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1030&co Australia, an Assessment Conversation Table ntext=gcm_pubs is included which will allow the assessor to Hargreaves, J 2006, Recognition of prior learning: At a glance, identify gaps in evidence where a structured NCVER, Adelaide conversation with the student may be able to Spencer, B 2009, Recognising Competency, CS&HITB Vic, provide the additional evidence required. To viewed 6 May 2009, give rigour to this process, evidence provided www.recognisingcompetency.org.au by students can be matched against assessment criteria to provide an accurate record of the basis on which RPL decisions are made. Database highlights Children exposed to domestic violence By Liane McDermott (PhD), Education Officer, CDFVR

Background Queensland, but they do provide some insights into the nature of domestic and family violence for new The Research Summary in this edition of the client matters recorded in the database. CDFVReader, summarises O’Brien’s (2008) literature review on problem sexual behaviour in children. Children/young people living in the household One of the many factors contributing to problem sexual behaviour in children is the exposure to family During the period 3 October 2003 to 31 March 2009, violence, with links between children being exposed a total of 137 860 new client matters for Indigenous to various forms of violence and enacting violence and non-Indigenous Australians were recorded in themselves. More commonly, domestic and family the Domestic and Family Violence Database. Of the violence affects children’s development and their Indigenous client matters (n=12 327), 39.4% had at emotional well-being, even from infancy (Jaffe et al, least one child aged 0 to 5 years living in the 1990). Continuing tension, fear and aggression in household, 27.1% had at least one child aged 6 to the environment can interfere with babies’ and 11 years and 14.9% had at least one young person toddlers’ development of trust and independence, aged 12 to 18 years living in the household. For and affect their brain development. For pre-school non-Indigenous client matters (n=125 533), these and primary aged children, ongoing domestic or figures were 32.3%, 25.4% and 15.2% respectively. family violence can also affect their brain development, as well as contribute to a range of For new client matters with only children aged 0 to behavioural difficulties, and for young people, 5 years (n=25 396) living in the household, the domestic and family violence often interferes with primary reason for contact to the service was most their ability to progress into healthy adult relationships commonly ‘experiencing violence in a current (Perry, 2001). relationship’ (Indigenous - 59.5%; non-Indigenous – 56.8%), followed by ‘experiencing violence from Here, we consider new client matters recorded in a past relationship’ (Indigenous – 15.4%; non- CDFVR’s Domestic and Family Violence Database Indigenous – 19.5%). ‘Experiencing violence in a where children aged 0 to 5 years, 6 to 11 years and current relationship’ was also the most common 12 to 18 years are living in the household. primary reason for contact to the service for Comparisons are also provided for Indigenous and households only with children aged 6 to 11 years non-Indigenous client matters. The database includes (n=10 229) (Indigenous – 54.6%; non-Indigenous – data provided by 29 domestic and family violence 52.1%) and households only with children aged 12 support services across Queensland, some of which to 18 years (n=7 895) (Indigenous – 58.4%; non- provide services for both victims of violence and Indigenous – 60.4%). those who use violence. The data do not represent the incidence of domestic and family violence in

Table 1 Type of service provided: households only with children 0 to 5 years (column per cent) Indigenous Non-Indigenous Total Number%% Number % Number Counselling 424 16.5 5 503 24.1 5 927 23.3 Court support 794 30.9 10 110 44.3 10 904 42.9 Crisis intervention 1 011 39.3 5 179 22.7 6 190 24.4 Advocacy 165 6.4 733 3.2 898 3.5 Other 166 6.5 1153 5.1 1 319 5.2 Missing 11 0.4 147 0.8 158 0.6 Total 2 571 22 825 25 396 More Indigenous domestic/family violence matters of service provided for Indigenous and non- were reported to the police than non-Indigenous Indigenous new client matters. As shown in Tables matters, irrespective of the age of the children living 1-3, a higher percentage of Indigenous clients sought in the household: Indigenous children 0-5 – 65.2%; crisis intervention: 37-40% across households with 6-11 years – 58.4%; 12-18 years – 63.7%; children in all age groups compared to 20-23% non-Indigenous children 0-5 – 55.2%; 6-11 years – among non-Indigenous clients. Non-Indigenous 53.1%; 12-18 years – 52.0%. clients were more likely to seek court support: 42-44% across all households compared to 30-31% Differences were also reported in the primary type among Indigenous clients.

Table 2 Type of service provided: households only with children 6 to 11 years (column per cent) Indigenous Non-Indigenous Total Number % Number %%Number Counselling 152 21.4 2 826 29.7 2 978 29.1 Court support 211 29.8 3 991 41.9 4 202 41.1 Crisis intervention 263 37.1 1 938 20.4 2 201 21.5 Advocacy 18 2.5 245 2.6 263 2.6 Other 62 8.7 452 4.7 514 5.0 Missing 3 0.4 68 0.7 71 0.7 Total 709 9 520 10 229

Table 3 Type of service provided: households only with children 12 to 18 years (column per cent)

Indigenous Non-Indigenous Total Number % Number % Number % Counselling 95 18.7 2 179 29.5 2 274 28.8 Court support 157 31.0 3 146 42.6 3 303 41.8 Crisis intervention 202 39.8 1 492 20.2 1 694 21.5 Advocacy 19 3.7 233 3.2 252 3.2 Other 31 6.1 297 4.0 328 4.2 Missing 3 0.6 41 0.6 44 0.6 Total 507 7 388 7 895

There were some slight differences in the reporting References of new domestic/family violence matters across households with children from the three different Jaffe, PG, Wolfe, DA, & Wilson, SK, 1990, Children of battered women, Sage, USA. age groups. However, there were more notable differences between Indigenous and non-Indigenous O’Brien, W 2008, Problem sexual behaviour in children: a new client matters, irrespective of the age of the review of the literature, Australian Crime Commission, Canberra. children living in the household. This was particularly Perry, BD 2001, ‘The neurodevelopmental impact of violence so for the reporting of domestic/family violence to in childhood’, in D Schetky & DP Benedek (eds), Textbook of police and the primary type of service sought by the child and adolescent forensic psychiatry, American Psychiatric client. Press, Washington DC. Research summary

Problem sexual behaviour in children: A review of the literature Dr Wendy O’Brien, Australian Crime Commission Summary by Liane McDermott, (PhD), Education Officer, CDFVR The Inquiry [Northern Territory Board of There is very limited research on young children Inquiry] was told of a range of juvenile engaging in problem sexual behaviour both offending, including a 12-year-old boy internationally and in Australia, which highlights the allegedly interfering with a three-year- urgent need for research across all sectors of old, a 13-year-old boy allegedly Australian society, including Indigenous communities. interfering with a five-year-old, a 15- year-old boy who had interfered with a Difficulties in researching children with problem three-year-old and an eight-year-old, a sexual behaviour 15-year-old girl who allegedly interfered with a group of younger boys, and a 14- Problem sexual behaviour in children is year-old girl who allegedly interfered a far greater issue than has been with girls and boys (Wild and Anderson, publicly acknowledged either 2007, p. 65) internationally or in Australia and the continued failure to confront this issue Recent reports and national media attention have in an honest and systematic way raised public awareness about problem sexual seriously jeopardizes effective behaviour among children in Indigenous preventative and rehabilitative response. communities. However, concerns regarding (O’Brien, 2008, p. 5) sexualized behaviours among Indigenous children have been cited since 1990, with reports of rapes In addition to the ethical considerations which place by boys as young as 10; young girls being traded restrictions around the research of children with for sexual misuse by their older brothers to pay problem sexual behaviours, historical and ideological gambling debts or to purchase alcohol; and children factors have also been cited as contributing to the sexually abusing younger siblings and other children. difficulties in researching this issue. Historically, Yet to date, the provision of culturally appropriate problem sexual behaviour in children was often and locally delivered prevention and intervention explained as “normal experimentation or programs has been remiss. developmental curiosity” (Veneziano and Veneziano, 2002, p. 247). Ideologies of childhood innocence O’Brien’s (2008) literature review on problem sexual and the reluctance to admit that children are capable behaviour in children, produced as an initiative of of sexually abusing another child have also the National Indigenous Violence and Child Abuse contributed to the slow response in confronting the Task Force, is one step forward to understanding issue. These historical and ideological barriers have the complexities of problem sexual behaviour in played a part in the paucity of research and the children and the urgent, critical need for an inadequate and inconsistent understandings of what Indigenous-focused and long-term, multi-systemic constitutes normal childhood sexuality and problem response. sexual behaviour.

A contextual understanding Ideologies of childhood innocence and the reluctance to admit that children are While defining problem sexual behaviour in children capable of sexually abusing another child is difficult due to the complexity of childhood behavior have contributed to the slow response in the varying interpretations and, social, cultural and confronting the issue. judicial factors, there is some agreement among While defining problem sexual behaviour scholars that coercion, consent and equality are in children is difficult...there is some agreement among scholars that coercion, central concepts. The Australian Childhood consent and equality are central concepts. Foundation (ACF) further include in their conceptualisation of problem sexual behaviour, sexual behaviour that contravenes family and Childhood problem sexual behaviour is broadly community values, or that takes place out of context defined as acts of aggressive or coercive sex by (i.e., in public): children towards other (usually younger) children. There are three ways behaviour can Prior traumatisation has been repeatedly cited as a be problematic. Firstly, the behaviour risk factor, particularly sexual abuse, which places puts the child at risk, interferes with the child at risk of acting out what they’ve been his or her development and taught by someone else (Dalton, 1999). relationships, violates rules, is self- abusive and/or is defined by the child Structural disadvantage in Indigenous as a problem. Secondly, the behaviour communities and the impact on problem sexual causes others to feel uncomfortable, behaviour in children occurs at the wrong time or place, conflicts with family or community “The dire situation of Indigenous children must be values, and is abusive. Thirdly, the seen as inextricably linked to extreme poverty, the behaviour can involve coercion and breakdown of traditional family obligations and the unequal power. (Staiger et al, 2005b, p. 3). immeasurable loss of connection to the land and For instance, children with problem cultural fragmentation” (Robertson, 1999, p. 186). While sexualthis present behaviour report are aligns more its likelyconceptualisation to The deleterious effects that social dysfunction has of problemhave experiencedsexual behaviour trauma, in children loss, with that of on behaviour patterns in children was identified in the ACF,alienation, it also strongly physical positions and/or sexual this behaviour as the National Crime Prevention report on violence in contextualabuse or and situational. to have O’Brien’switnessed report family highlights Indigenous communities: “considerable research the generalviolence, consensus illicit drug that use the and vast alcohol majority of has shown an association between stressful, negative childrenabuse engaging by parents in problematic or caregivers sexual behaviours community conditions, and maladaptive coping are not(Staiger motivated et al, by 2005b).a pre-existing sexual preference behaviour and social dysfunction” (Stanley et al, for children, but rather their behaviour is a result of 2003, p. 8). Historical factors of violence, colonial their context or situation. For instance, children with dispossession, alcohol, welfare dependency and problem sexual behaviour are more likely to have isolation have all been theorised as causes of social experienced trauma, loss, alienation, physical and/or dysfunction in Indigenous communities. While alcohol sexual abuse and to have witnessed family violence, is most commonly blamed for Indigenous violence, illicit drug use and alcohol abuse by parents or it is the interconnected layers and complex contexts caregivers (Staiger et al, 2005b). Commonly, early of systemic disadvantage that need to be understood life experiences for these children, are filled with and addressed. anger, confusion, sadness and fear (Staiger et al, 2005b). In this present report, O’Brien (2008) summarises a number of these aspects of systemic disadvantage These correlatives to problem sexual behaviours in that contribute to risk pathways to childhood problem children are evident, and often characteristic of life, sexual behaviour in Indigenous communities. in some Indigenous communities. Prevention and intervention programs need to address the contextual Inter-generational normalisation of violence factors of systemic disadvantage in these Indigenous Violence of all types is disproportionately higher in communities in order to destabilise the culture where Indigenous communities than the Australian aggression and harmful sexual behaviours have population as a whole (Memmott et al, 1991, 2001). been normalised. As stated by Stanley et al (2003, Concerns about the normalisation of both physical p. 14), “ . The abuse and neglect of Indigenous and sexual violence in some Indigenous communities children needs to be understood within a framework and the impact of this violence as a learned behaviour that acknowledges the contribution of multiple have been described in numerous studies and reports societal, community, family and individual factors.” (Thorpe, 2004; Robertson, 1999; Blagg, 1999; Memmott et al, 1991, 2001). Risk factors and pathways to problem sexual behaviour in children Silence, fear and shame: impediments to addressing violence There are a number of commonalities in the Major impediments to reporting domestic violence circumstances of children and young people and sexual abuse include the complex interplay of engaging in problem sexual behaviours. These psychological responses, fears for personal safety children have “particularly troubled backgrounds and the trauma of recounting events in clinical and with a history of physical and sexual abuse, judicial settings. For Indigenous victims, disclosure substance misuse, emotional victimisation or is often prevented by fear, intimidation, the risk of abandonment, and high rate[s] of psychiatric, inter-familial retribution, fears about families being learning or medical problems” (Cavanagh Johnson, torn apart and the shame associated with the 1998; Lane with Lobanov-Rotsovsky, 1997, cited in revelation (Mulligan, 2008). For some communities Lovell 2004, p. 4). there is a sense that disclosure is pointless given the insufficient services to provide a necessary response (Mulligan, 2008). Child sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect School engagement and performance The extent of family violence and sexual assault of The compromised educational outcomes for women and children in Indigenous communities has Indigenous children also place them at increased been termed an ‘epidemic’ (Gordon et al, 2002) and risk of problem sexual behaviour. The NT Inquiry a ‘crisis of frightening magnitude’ (Crime and shows “a correlation between school non-attendance Misconduct Commission, 2004). Indigenous children and criminal activity, poverty, unemployment, are nearly five times more likely to be the subject homelessness, violence and sexual abuse” (Wild of a substantiation for child abuse or neglect than and Anderson, 2007, p. 155). The lack of effective non-Indigenous children, and the number of engagement at school may also compromise Indigenous children in out-of-home-care is over children’s socialisation and skills development which seven times that of their non-Indigenous counterparts are crucial in preventing delinquency, apathy, anger, (AIHW, 2006). Neglect and abuse in the family home, substance abuse and sexual activity. as well as out-of-home placement creates an unstable home environment, which is a known Substance use and misuse correlative to problem sexual behaviour in children. Substance abuse is a chronic problem in many Indigenous communities, which contributes to the Family and community violence risk of family disruption, neglect and physical and Witnessing family violence is cited as a risk factor sexual abuse. While substance abuse by children to children engaging in problem sexual behaviour. with problem sexual behaviour has received less Links have been made between children witnessing attention than that of their parents, it is still an issue various forms of violence and then enacting forms of major concern for Indigenous children, with of violence themselves (Atkinson, 1996). indications that some Indigenous children consume alcohol on a regular basis from a much younger Familial disruption – loss of role models – adult age than their non-Indigenous counterparts. responsibility at a young age Loss of family role models, familial disruption, a Health and wellbeing profound lack of parental supervision, and While the poor health outcomes of Indigenous people circumstances where young children are required are well documented, two that are particularly to assume parental or caregiver responsibilities for relevant to contributing to problem sexual behaviour younger siblings are risk factors for problem sexual in children are severe hearing impediments and behaviour in children. These are characteristic of foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). This is mostly life for many Indigenous children. attributed to the subsequent learning difficulties and compromised social skills associated with both Household and individual income hearing impairments and FAS. Children with problem sexual behaviour are more likely to come from very low income households Imprisonment and juvenile detention rates (Staiger et al, 2005b). There is a much higher extent Parental criminal activity is a risk factor for problem of poverty in Indigenous communities compared to sexual behaviour in children, as it results in familial the broader Australian population (Altman and disruption caused by the incarceration of parents, Hunter, 1998), and subsequently, these communities caregivers or familial role models. Additionally, are at increased risk of compromised health and life childhood delinquency is a strong risk pathway to expectancy, poor educational outcomes, increased problem sexual behaviour. substance abuse and participation in crime and violence (SCRGSP, 2007). Pornography and other factors of socialisation There is very little research and understanding about Housing conditions and infrastructure the role that pornography may play in contributing In addition to an unstable home environment, to problem sexual behaviour in children. However, homelessness is also a risk factor for problem sexual concern has been expressed in some Indigenous behaviour in children. 2006 data from the Kids Help communities about the extent to which children are Line showed that Indigenous young people were being exposed to “inappropriate sexual activity, such more likely to seek help with issues of homelessness as pornography, adult films and adults having sex than non-Indigenous young people. Overcrowded within the child’s view” (Wild and Anderson, 2007, housing has also been cited as a contributing factor p. 65). to the overt sexualisation of Indigenous children (Wild and Anderson, 2007), with the suggestion that Child sexual exploitation shared sleeping areas increase the risk of children’s Compounding the crisis of problem sexual behaviour exposure to pornography and sexual activity by among Indigenous children is the evidence of child adults or other children. sexual exploitation in some communities. Vulnerable children (particularly girls) are being sexually and child sexual abuse suffered by exploited by both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal some Indigenous children describes, men, with girls consenting to sex in exchange for in complete terms, the risk scenarios goods or favours (Wild and Anderson, 2007). Such and pathways to both child sexual informal prostitution is an act of survival for the exploitation, and problem sexual children involved (CMC, 2004). behaviour in childhood. The fact that these precursors and correlatives are Conclusion both disproportionately evident and often normalised in Indigenous While the phenomenon of children engaging in communities significantly increases problem sexual behaviour is not exclusive to the risk that Indigenous children will Indigenous communities, this report mainly attends become involved in childhood problem to the urgent need for a culturally appropriate sexual behaviour and/or sexual response aimed at addressing the context and exploitation. Scholars cite crucial consequences of structural disadvantage that knowledge gaps in these two areas, increase the risk of childhood problem sexual and the service provision is clearly behaviour. In conclusion, O’Brien states (2008, lacking. There can be no question that p. 48): serious attention to these issues, and their devastating effects, is urgently The familial breakdown, poverty, required if the next generation of educational difficulties, violence, prior Indigenous children are to be spared. victimisation, homelessness, isolation

References Mulligan, E 2008, Children on Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) lands, Commission of Inquiry: a report Altman, J & Hunter, B 1988, 'Indigenous poverty', in R Fincher into sexual abuse, Presented to the South Australian Parliament. & J Nieuwenhuysen (eds), Australian poverty: then and now, Melbourne University Press, Melbourne. O'Brien, W 2008, Problem sexual behaviour in children: a review of the literature, Australian Crime Commission, Canberra. Atkinson, J 1996, 'A nation is not conquered', Aboriginal Law Bulletin, vol. 3, pp. 4-9. Robertson, B 1999, The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women's Task Force on Violence report, Queensland. Blagg, H 1999, Working with adolescents to prevent domestic violence: Indigenous rural model, National Crime Prevention. Staiger, P, Kambouropoulous, N et al. 2005, Children who engage in problem sexual behaviours: context, characteristics Cavanagh Johnson, T 1988, 'Child perpetrators: children who and treatment. A review of the literature, Australian Childhood molest other children: preliminary findings', Child Abuse and Foundation and Deakin University, Melbourne. Neglect, vol. 1, pp. 219-229. Stanley, J, Tomison, A et al. 2003, Child abuse and neglect in Crime and Misconduct Commission 2004, Child sexual offences Indigenous Australian communities., Australian Institute of in Indigenous communities: strategic intelligence report. Family Studies, National Child Protection Clearinghouse.

Dalton, R 1999, 'Child sexual aggression no surprise to the Steering Committee for the Review of Government Service front-liners', The Australian, 18 June 1999. Provision (SCRGSP) 2007, Overcoming Indigenous disadvantage: key indicators 2007, Productivity Commission, Gordon, S, Hallahan, K et al. 2002, Putting the picture together: Canberra. inquiry into response by government agencies to complaints of family violence and child abuse in Aboriginal communities, Thorpe, L, Solomon, R et al. 2004, From shame to pride: Department of Premier and Cabinet, Perth. access to sexual assault services for Indigenous people, A partnership project between Elizabeth Hoffman House and Lane, S & with Lobanov-Rostovsky, C 1997, 'Special Casa House, Melbourne. populations: children, females, the developmentally disabled, and violent youth', in G Ryan & S Lane (eds), Juvenile sexual Veneziano, C & Veneziano, L 2002, 'Adolescent sex offenders: offending: causes, consequences and correction, Jossey- a review of the literature', Trauma, Violence and Abuse, vol. Bass, San-Fransisco. 3, no. 4, pp. 247-260.

Lovell, E 2002, Children and young people who display sexually Welfare, AIoHa 2006, Child protection Australia 2004-05, harmful behavior, National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty Canberra. to Children (NSPCC), London. Wild, R & Anderson, P 2007, Ampe akelyernemane meke Memmott, P, Stacy, R et al. 1991, 2001, Violence in Indigenous mekarle "little children are sacred": report of the Northern communities, National Crime Prevention Unit, Attorney Territory Board of Inquiry into the [rotection of Aboriginal General's Department, Canberra. children from sexual abuse, Northern Territory Government. Policy initiatives Dying to be heard By Betty Taylor, Founding Member, Domestic Violence Death Review Action Group Are domestic violence deaths a reality we have all including what more could have been come to accept or are they something that we can done to prevent a death and identifying and should work to eliminate? The Domestic Violence any gaps in services for victims. Death Review Action Group (DVDRAG) is of the opinion that many of these deaths are preventable Welcome news indeed with predictable traits to them. Most domestic violence The Queensland announcement follows the release related fatalities arise from a history of abuse and of Time for Action, the National Council’s Plan to violence with many warning signs present prior to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children. the death – they are not caused by a ‘brain snap’. Of specific note is the recommendation to establish As violence escalates, many victims themselves domestic violence death review processes in each have often sought a variety of unsuccessful state and territory. interventions often warning of the risks posed to them. 4.3.2 Establish or build on emerging homicide/fatality review processes in all Are these deaths preventable? states and territories to review deaths that International experience would indicate they are, result from domestic and family violence with the Domestic Violence Fatality Board of Toronto so as to identify factors leading to these declaring that domestic violence homicides are the deaths, improve system responses and most preventable of all homicides. With the respond to service gaps. As part of this introduction of domestic violence death reviews process ensure all information is, or across many communities in the USA and Canada, recommendations are, centrally recorded there has been a significant reduction in domestic and available for information exchange. violence fatalities within those communities. Death (Time for Action 2009, p. 120) reviews allow for the identification of prior risk indicators, patterns and trends, gaps within service The federal government will play a critical role in the systems including points at which safe intervention development of a national framework, protocols, could have occurred. In addition, reviews identify and benchmarks for best practice. shortcomings in legislation, policy, staff induction and training, as well as collaboration and interventions to perpetrators.

Placing domestic violence related deaths on the public agenda has been at the forefront of the work undertaken by DVDRAG since it was established in 2004. Central to their work has been the lobbying of the Queensland Government for the establishment of a Domestic Violence Death Review Board. This multi-disciplinary team would examine available public records and other documentation relative to domestic violence deaths, to determine systemic and service gaps and missed opportunities for safe and timely intervention.

DVDRAG welcomes the recent announcement by Left to right Pam Godsell, Shirley Slann, Diane Mangan, Betty the Queensland Government that a death review Green and Betty Taylor attending the Domestic Violence Death Review Forum in Mt Isa panel will be established. Premier Anna Bligh, in announcing the establishment of a domestic violence The important work of DVDRAG has benefited from death review panel stated: the receipt of a grant from WESNET (Women’s Services Network) which has allowed for the It will go further than investigate why these progression of work on several issues. This has deaths occurred in the past and convene included the completion of a discussion paper on to investigate the reasons behind any domestic violence deaths, hosting community deaths as they occur in the future – awareness forums across Queensland as well as the development of an educational media kit and proposed forum specifically for media professionals. The discussion paper, Dying to be Heard, presented a crucial role in organising and supporting the forums. to the Queensland Government in December 2008 Thanks to all who contributed to the success of these by members of DVDRAG outlines international events. There was strong support for domestic experiences of death reviews, a proposed model for violence death reviews and the information gained a death review board, key recommendations and provided added insights and issues to be considered. draft terms of references. DVDRAG welcomed the attendance and feedback Some of the other recommendations contained in from Indigenous participants and reinforced the Dying to Be Heard include: opinion of DVDRAG that the development of a domestic violence death review would need to be l That the feasibility of allocating a Domestic inclusive in its development and implementation. Violence Death Review Board within the state coroner’s office be explored including issues Another aspect of the work currently being associated with legislative powers, funding and undertaken by DVDRAG is the development of a staffing. media kit aimed at informing media professionals and media students on domestic violence. The media l That the Queensland Government incorporates plays a critical role in informing the general public the establishment of a Domestic Violence Death on domestic violence. The way in which domestic Review Board into a whole of government violence is reported can either challenge accepted framework. stereotypes and myths or reinforce them. The media kit is designed to engage media in meaningful l That the Queensland Government allocates the dialogue as well provide information aimed at necessary resources to allow for the assisting with the reporting of these tragic stories. development of a Domestic Violence Death The media kit will be launched in the near future at Review Board and its function for a 3-year pilot a specific event in Brisbane. period. Domestic violence deaths are tragic for all concerned That a reference group be convened to oversee l – most of all for surviving families and friends. the development of a Domestic Violence Death Through our combined efforts in addressing domestic Review Board with membership drawn from violence related deaths in a considered and both government and non-government sectors. purposeful manner, we are sure that we can make This group will develop terms of reference, a significant difference to those lives which are most membership criteria, case review processes, at risk from serious injury or death. We appreciate board functions and evaluation processes. all the support from the community and invite you to continue supporting the campaign. DVDRAG has l That a separate process be developed to allow for the employment of an Indigenous joined with colleagues in other states to begin a worker/consultant supported by an Indigenous national campaign: Not One More. reference group who will consult with Indigenous organisations and community on the way forward Disclaimer: The Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family for the development of a Domestic Violence Violence Research welcomes articles from guest contributors. Death Review Board that is appropriate for Publication of the articles will be at the discretion of the Director of the Centre. Views espressed in published guest contributions them. are not necessarily the views of the Centre. To progress community understanding of domestic violence death reviews as well as to seek feedback References on the discussion paper, community forums were Domestic Violence Death Review Committee 2005, Annual held across Queensland. This included forums held Report to the Chief Coroner 2005, Office of the Chief Coroner in Brisbane, Mt Isa and Townsville. The forums Ontario, Ontario Canada included a panel of expert speakers including Carolyn Queensland Government 2009, Strategy to stamp out the Johnson from WA, Dr Elspeth McInnes from SA scourge of domestic violence, media release, 25 May, viewed Julie Stewart and Betty Green, both from New South 25 May 2009, Wales, who travelled with DVDRAG members to Mt Isa and Townsville. Queensland speakers at the Taylor, B 2008, Dying to be Heard, Domestic Violence Death Review Action Group, Brisbane forums included Michael Barnes, State Coroner; Snr. Sgt Mark Lance and Sgt Rohan Manning–Jones, The National Committee to Reduce Violence against Women Queensland Police Service; Shirley Slann and and their Children 2009, Time for Action: The National Council’s Pauline Woodbridge from North Queensland Plan for Australia to Reduce Violence against Women and Domestic Violence Resource Service; Katrina Finn their Children, 2009-2021, Commonwealth of Australia and Pam Godsell, Women’s Legal Service; Tracey Websdale, N., Town, M. & Johnson, 1999, Domestic Violence French DVDRAG, and Dying to Be Heard author Fatality Reviews: From a Culture of Blame to a Culture of Betty Taylor. Di Mangan, Director dvconnect, played Safety, Juvenile & Family Court Journal Spring Edition Resource review Putting youth in the picture By Adair Donaldson and Peter Shannon, with Brendon Busby Summarized by Deborah Balmer, Education Officer, CDFVR Putting Youth in the with sexual assault, victims of sexual assault (both Picture is an education hetero- and homosexual), motor vehicle accidents resource designed to (non-alcohol related), bar room brawl/assault, and prevent young men and illicit use of drugs. Each scenario is authentic, being women “turning up on based on court cases the two lawyers have been lawyers’ doorsteps” involved in. The approach is no-nonsense, teaching (2008b, p. 9) through students accurately where the line is, and what making poor split-second happens if you cross it, as a deterrent. Ethical errors of judgement considerations are raised, but are not the central concerning alcohol use, approach. drug use, driving behaviour, sexual The resource has grown organically and has been behaviour, texting grounded in much community and end-user support, behaviour and other benefiting the final published iteration. What began issues relevant to the as a ‘one-off talk’ at a local high school has developed lives of emerging adults. into a 10-module (1 x 1.5 hours & 9 x 40minutes) The resource is scenario-based, confronting, training package. There is also an additional engaging, and takes a problem-solving approach, (eleventh) module written especially for parents (the designed to allow the audience to suggest harm second DVD) which tells the story of responsible minimisation strategies. Putting Youth in the Picture parents hosting an under-aged party that gets out has been developed and funded by Peter Shannon of control. and Adair Donaldson, Toowoomba lawyers and winners of the 2005 Queensland Civil Justice Award. Users can choose to watch each scenario with a The resource was recently shown on ABC’s Four commentary by Adair Donaldson, or not. As Corners programme (Ferguson, 2009) being used previously mentioned, delivery strategies are very with NRL players as a tool to educate players on flexible – it gives outlines, suggestions of delivery, the meaning of consent. but leaves wide scope for the resource to be adapted and suited to different audiences. The situations Shannon & Donaldson have about 30 years are largely designed for Australian urban populations experience between them in helping young people and are focussed around the problem-scenarios through the court system. A commonality in all of being portrayed. these cases according to Donaldson (2008) has been that: Donaldson himself has presented the resource to more than 4,500 students, athletes, health workers, They all made a poor split second and police and believes the resource is working in decision...they didn’t set out to cause achieving the learning goals. Evaluation of the anybody harm...they then made this programme is undertaken by end-users. High fateful decision and then they find schools, sporting clubs, a church, police, youth themselves before the courts and find organisations and clubs, liquor industry groups, and that their lives have changed dramatically. parent groups are amongst the current users. CDFVR commends the authors for their initiative The resource outlines the legal consequences of and vision. Go to www.puttingyouthinthepicture.com breaching the law surrounding six real-life scenarios. for more details. The legal ramifications of an offence on your record for employment, travel, and life are made very plain. References The resource does not make explicit the theory underpinning its approach, but does draw on feminist Ferguson, S 2009, ‘Code of silence’ Four corners, ABC, 11 and deterrence approaches. Its central focus is to May, viewed 20 May 2009 be a resource, able to be used in its entirety as a http://www.abc.net.au/iview/#/view/370129 program, or as the raw materials for a course with Donaldson, A 2008a, Drive, radio broadcast, ABC Radio a differing conceptual approach. There are two Queensland, 17 October, viewed 20 April 2009 DVDs. The first has five scenarios which are aimed http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2008/10/your-whole-life.html at the 15-25 year-old audience. The scenarios deal Donaldson, A 2008b, Putting youth in the picture, Province Promotions, Toowoomba Workshops,conferences and date claimers

26 June 2009 2-4 September 2009 Best Practice for Working with Adults Surviving Child Is Prison Obsolete? Conference Abuse Brisbane, QLD Brisbane, QLD http://www.sistersinside.com.au/conference2009.htm http://www.asca.org.au/displaycommon.cfm?an=1 &subarticlenbr=114 2-4 September 2009 Transforming Australia for our Children’s Future: 1 July 2009 Making Prevention Work CDFVR Distinguished Visitor Seminar Melbourne, VIC Eddie Gallagher http://www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/en/Seminars-and- Child to Parent Violence: Who, what & why? Events/Conferences-and-Symposia/ARACY- Email: [email protected] Conference-2009---Making-prevention-work.aspx

8-9 July 2009 7-8 September 2009 The Australian and New Zealand Critical Criminology 1st National Cannabis Conference Conference Sydney, NSW Melbourne, VIC http://ncpic.org.au/workforce/cannabis-conference/ http://arts.monash.edu.au/psi/news-and- events/critical-criminology/index.php 7-10 September 2009 Children and the Law: International Approaches to 8-10 July 2009 Children and their Vulnerabilities Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Prevention of Prato, Tuscany Abusive Behaviours in Childhood and Adolescence http://www.med.monash.edu.au/socialwork/confer Bundaberg, QLD ence09/ http://www.psychology.org.au/Events/EventView.a spx?EventID=4740 11 September 2009 Same Sex Domestic Violence Conference 15-17 July 2009 Kings Cross Sydney, NSW Disability and Justice: Many Faces, Equal Rights? http://ssdv.acon.org.au/providerinfo/documents/S Melbourne, VIC SDVConference.CallForAbstracts.pdf http://www.acso.com.au/docs/ACSOConf.pdf 8-10 October 2009 29 July 2009 National Conference on Health and Domestic Challenging Childhoods: Responding to Children Violence who Engage in Problem Sexual Behaviour in the New Orleans, USA out of Home Care Environment http://www.fvpfhealthconference.org/ Brisbane, QLD http://www.childhood.org.au/training/event.asp?st 21 October 2009 ory=15031 National Conference on Australian Prison Issues Melbourne, VIC 10-12 August http://www.prisonissuesconference.webs.com/ Building Safer Collaborative Community Responses TAVAN Institute in partnership with Domestic Abuse 28-30 October 2009 Intervention Project Duluth Minnesota Victorian Offender Treatment Association 2009 Trainer and Presenter: Graham Barnes, Minnesota Conference Gold Coast Melbourne, VIC Further Information: [email protected] http://www.vota.org.au/conference09/conference. html 23-26 August 2009 Sixth Women and Policing Conference – Making it 15-18 November 2009 Happen 2009 ISPCAN Asia Pacific Regional Conference on Perth, WA Child Abuse and Neglect http://www.acwap.com.au/conferences/conf09.html Perth, WA http://www.ispcan.org/ConferencesSupportedByI SPCAN.htm