The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence in Australia of multi-type child maltreatment, defined as two or more maltreatment types (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, or exposure to domestic violence) and to examine its nature, family risk factors, and gender and age cohort differences.

Findings revealed that multi-type child maltreatment is prevalent in Australia and more common in women and gender diverse individuals. Child protection services, health practitioners, and prevention and intervention services must assess and manage multi-type maltreatment in children and address its health consequences across the lifespan. Public health policy should consider prevention services or strategies that target multi-type child maltreatment.

To our knowledge, this is the first time that a population-representative study of all five child maltreatment types has been conducted. Australian children experienced multi-type maltreatment more often than a single type (39.4% v 22.8%). Almost one-quarter (23.3%) experienced three to five maltreatment types, and 3.5% experienced all five types. A common multi-type maltreatment combination involves exposure to domestic violence, emotional abuse and physical abuse. Broader family-related adverse experiences almost doubled the risk of multi-type maltreatment.

Prevention, protection and treatment services must coordinate to promote safety and recovery from multi-type maltreatment. Public health prevention measures must employ broad strategies addressing multi-type maltreatment, particularly targeting women and gender diverse individuals.