IN-PERSON London. Section A

Abstract

Domestic and family violence (DFV) is a major global gender-based health and welfare issue that disproportionately impacts on women and children. Within Australia, Domestic and family violence has been described as a national pandemic, and despite government efforts to reduce DFV, the incidence and impact of DFV on the day-to-day lives of women and children remains high. Approximately one women is murdered by an intimate partner ever week, and in the 2020-2021 reporting year, over 116,200 people (predominantly women and children) sought Specialist Homelessness Service assistance as a result of DFV. The point at which someone decides to leave a situation of domestic violence is particularly dangerous for women and children, and is often marked by an escalation of violence, making it critical that safe and appropriate housing options are available. But in the context of domestic and family violence, what does safety mean, and how can the design of the refuge environment help contribute to a greater sense of safety and security? This paper examines preliminary results from a pilot study aimed at developing a better understanding of the spectrum of experiences of those seeking assistance as a result of DFV, and the different factors that impact on accommodation needs, safety, health and wellbeing. Structured interviews were conducted with women and staff at four DFV refuges across Australia. From these interviews, differences were observed between staff a residents in the notion of safety and security and how that is manifest within the built environment.