Research examining restorative justice (RJ) for domestic and family violence (DFV) and sexual violence is growing. While best practice principles are used to guide the design and implementation of RJ for these forms of violence, these principles have primarily been informed by experts and other stakeholders. Importantly, there has been little empirical examination of the perspectives of victim-survivors on best practice in relation to RJ for DFV and sexual violence.

This study addresses this gap, drawing on interviews with, and surveys of, 13 victim-survivors who participated in an Australian RJ program for DFV and sexual violence. Victim-survivors repeatedly identified Convenors’ skills and expertise, flexibility and a feeling that they were supported to satisfy a diverse range of justice needs as critical to the success of restorative justice in this context.

Stakeholders agree that best practice in RJ for DFV and sexual violence is characterised by a victim‑centred process. Best practices discussed by victim-survivors are categorised into four main themes: Convenor skills and expertise, victim-centred processes, intensive preparation and risk management, and collaboration with other services and experts.