An analysis of domestic violence presenting to FRCs at intake and assessment

Reforms to family law have focused on changing the culture of how post-separation parenting arrangements are facilitated. In recognition of the fact that domestic violence is a significant factor in family breakdown, the reforms contained an exemption mechanism which can be implemented if there are safety concerns during family dispute resolution. However, the capacity of services to effectively screen and address the safety needs of clients in domestic violence situations is contested. This article presents an analysis of the intake and assessment forms of clients presenting at three family relationship centres (FRCs) in 2010. The findings from this research suggest that domestic violence is common for families presenting to FRCs but also that clients feel safe within the FDR process regardless of gender or presenting order.