This report investigates the experiences of domestic and family violence (DFV) among children and young people with disability in Australia, highlighting significant gaps in service provision and policy. The mixed-method study found that children with disability are disproportionately affected by DFV, with exposure rates twice as high as their non-disabled peers. First Nations children and those in regional or remote areas face even greater risks. The research reveals that trauma, disrupted housing and schooling, and limited access to appropriate services are common outcomes. Support systems are often fragmented, lacking disability and DFV literacy, and heavily reliant on parental advocacy. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was found to be complex and inflexible, with inadequate trauma-related support.
The study calls for systemic reform, advocating for trauma-informed, disability-informed, and child-centred approaches. It recommends improved cross-sector collaboration, practitioner training, flexible funding models, and the inclusion of children’s voices in service design and policy. A proposed practice framework outlines principles of child-centredness, rights-focus, holistic care, and investment in early intervention. The report emphasises the urgent need to prioritise children and young people with disability in national strategies and ensure their safety, wellbeing, and agency are central to DFV responses.
