LAW

Recognising Family Violence in the LGBTIQ+ Community

In this article, we shed light on the specific risk factors faced by LGBTIQ+ people concerning family violence in Australia.

Parker Coles Curtis | Community

Recognising and Addressing Family Violence in the LGBTIQ+ Community

In recent years, there have been remarkable strides in recognising and addressing family violence in both legislation and public discourse in Australia and around the world.

However, despite these gains, family violence against LGBTIQ+ individuals remains largely overlooked and underreported.

In this article, we shed light on the specific risk factors faced by LGBTIQ+ people concerning family violence in Australia.

Key Risk Factors

Discrimination: LGBTIQ+ individuals often confront higher levels of discrimination, both in society at large and sometimes from their own families. This discrimination can manifest as public harassment, which can contribute to family violence being normalised. Being subjected to discrimination increases the stress and tension within relationships and can be a precursor to violence and abuse.
Isolation and Lack of Support: Many LGBTIQ+ individuals experience social isolation. They may lack the support networks that others take for granted. This isolation can stem from a variety of sources, including rejection by family and friends. Without a strong support system, individuals are more vulnerable to family violence.
Stigma and Shame: The stigma and shame that regrettably is still experienced by LGBTIQ+ persons can have profound psychological effects. Individuals may avoid seeking help or disclosing their experiences of family violence due to shame, fear of judgment and rejection. This can keep victims trapped in abusive situations.
Lack of Legal Protection or community support: In certain cases, LGBTIQ+ individuals may encounter legal barriers limiting their access to the same protections and support systems available to heterosexual individuals. These barriers can leave them more susceptible to family violence and less able to access legal help and support.
Intersectionality: LGBTIQ+ individuals who belong to other marginalised groups, such as those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds or individuals with disabilities, face additional risks due to the intersection of multiple forms of discrimination. The compounding effects of discrimination from various angles can increase their vulnerability to family violence.

Taking Action

It is vital to recognise that these risk factors are not exhaustive. Each individual's experience is unique. Legal professionals need to understand, acknowledge, and address these risk factors when assisting LGBTIQ+ clients facing family violence.

At Parker Coles Curtis, we are committed to providing support and assistance to victims of family violence. Our team is trained in trauma-informed practices and understands the complex and sensitive nature of these cases. We encourage anyone experiencing family violence, or who knows someone in such a situation, to reach out for help.

Educating yourself about, and promoting healthy relationships can help you identify when you or a loved one is in a violent or abusive situation.

Together, we can work towards a safer, more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can live free from the fear of family violence.

Recognising and addressing family violence in the LGBTIQ+ community is an essential step towards creating a more equitable and just society. By understanding the specific risk factors faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals and providing the necessary support and legal protections, we can contribute to breaking the cycle of family violence and ensuring a brighter, safer future for all.

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, please don't hesitate to contact our team at Parker Coles Curtis. We are here to help – judgment free.