Response:

The question of whether domestic violence has increased in Australia over time is complex and can vary based on the metrics and time frames considered. Here are some key points gleaned from various sources:

1. Prevalence Rates:

• Approximately 1 in 4 women (23%) and 1 in 14 men (7.3%) have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner when assessing lifetime prevalence (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).
• A recent study indicated a decrease in the 12-month prevalence rate of cohabiting partner emotional abuse from 4.8% in 2016 to 3.9% in 2021-22 (Australian Bureau of Statistics).

1. Trends Over Time:

• Specific studies suggest that while lifetime experience rates remain significant, certain metrics, such as the 12-month prevalence of intimate partner violence, have actually decreased in recent years (from 2.3% in 2016 to 1.5% in 2021-22 for women).
• Overall, the reported incidents of domestic violence may appear higher in recent years due to increased awareness, better reporting mechanisms, and a societal shift towards zero tolerance for such violence.

1. Statistics Overview:

• Historical deaths: Between mid-2002 and mid-2012, 488 women were killed by their intimate partners, highlighting that even if reporting is better now, historical violence rates were severe (ANROWS).
• Violence continues to yield significant societal impacts, with intimate partner violence being a leading preventable risk factor for death, disability, and illness among women aged 25 to 44.

1. Resources for Further Reading:

• Family and Domestic Violence Statistics – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
• Intimate Partner Violence – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
• Domestic Violence – NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research

In conclusion, while awareness and reporting of domestic violence have increased, leading to higher reported incidents, certain statistics indicate improvements in specific areas of domestic violence rates over recent years.