It’s a nightmare scenario that is a common plight for international women living under the shadow of domestic violence in Australia.
New Zealand women in particular face a unique set of circumstances that throw up enormous barriers in allowing them to escape partner abuse.
Under the common 444 visa, New Zealanders have the right to live and work in Australia, but because they remain citizens of their homeland, they are not entitled to government benefits.
When faced with domestic violence and without finances to leave, many as a last resort flee back to New Zealand, but then can be forced back by their abuser to Australia.
The legal tool is the Hague Convention, which prevents children being taken across borders unlawfully, and is predominantly judged on the black-and-white fact of a border crossing, not the extenuating circumstances.
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