Recent evidence shows the scale of sexual violence against women and children in Australia has been severely underestimated. Family violence is a key driver.
Research from Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety (ANROWS) found 51% of women in their 20s have experienced sexual violence.
Further, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates 2.2 million Australians (12% of the population) have had experiences of sexual violence, threats and/or assault since the age of 15.
While physical assault rates for men have almost halved since 2008-09, the largest reported increase in physical assault is that experienced by young women aged 18 to 29. There are also increasing rates of sexual assault in Australia. Recent data show this rising for the tenth year in a row, from 83 to 121 victim-survivors per 100,000 since 2011.
Australian and global data show most violence against women is perpetrated by a family member or intimate partner (49%).
Despite experiencing unique and serious safety risks, young women are almost invisible in public debate on the issue.
Source: When it comes to family violence, young women are too often ignored