This briefing paper defines domestic and family violence, outlines NSW Government strategies, and, provides a snapshot of recent developments federally and in Queensland and Victoria.

Executive summary

Domestic and family violence is an all too common crime in NSW, as it is in Australia generally. Owing to lack of reporting by victims its true prevalence is unknown, but existing statistics show that a significant proportion of Australians, primarily but not exclusively women, suffer violence at the hands of a partner.

This briefing paper is an update to the  2007 publication, "Domestic Violence in NSW".