This snapshot focuses on victim-survivors of intimate partner violence. As such, the core aim of this work is to further understand the scope of intimate partner violence victimisation among Australian 18–19 year olds. Specific focus is given to different forms of intimate partner violence victimisation, and rates of intimate partner violence among adolescent females and males. The potentially protective role of peers and parents against intimate partner violence is considered.

The following questions are addressed:

1. How prevalent is intimate partner violence and abuse victimisation among adolescents aged 18–19 years?
2. What are the most common violent or abusive behaviours experienced by adolescents in an intimate relationship?
3. Do supportive friendships in the teen years reduce the risk of intimate partner violence and abuse victimisation at ages 18–19 years?
4. Do supportive relationships with parents in the teen years reduce the risk of intimate partner violence and abuse victimisation at ages 18–19 years?

Key findings:

• Around three in 10 adolescents aged 18–19 years reported at least one experience of intimate partner violence in the previous year. 
• Emotional abuse was experienced by one in eight adolescents aged 18–19 years in the previous year. 
• Physical violence was experienced by one in 10 adolescents aged 18–19 years in the previous year. 
• One in 12 adolescents aged 18–19 years experienced sexual abuse in the previous year. Sexual abuse was more prevalent among females aged 18–19 years than males of the same age. 
• Supportive friendships throughout adolescence reduce the risk of later emotional abuse victimisation by 36%. 
• High trust and good communication with parents during adolescence reduce the risk of later emotional abuse victimisation by 39% and sexual abuse victimisation by 77%.