Children living in fear in their own homes deserve urgent action to keep them safe. The Commissioner for Domestic Family and Sexual Violence, Micaela Cronin, has called for evidence-based discussions on the role of alcohol and other drugs in violence. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has shown support for this initiative. There are simple actions that state and federal governments can take to immediately improve the safety of women and children in their homes. Outdated liquor licensing laws need to be addressed, as alcohol has become more accessible than ever before, with round-the-clock delivery services and aggressive marketing tactics targeting vulnerable individuals.
Alcohol companies have been allowed to advertise excessively, leading to increased harm to women and children. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, there was a surge in advertising for online alcohol delivery services, encouraging excessive drinking as a coping mechanism. It is essential to address trading hours and the number of outlets selling alcohol, as research shows a correlation between increased availability of alcohol and higher rates of violence. Victim-survivors often fear for their safety after dark, especially when their abuser has been drinking. Implementing guard rails such as restricting alcohol sales after 10pm and introducing a two-hour safety pause before delivery could help reduce alcohol-related family violence.
Governments have a history of taking swift action to improve public safety and combat alcohol-related violence. The changes being advocated for now are relatively modest but have the potential to significantly reduce the rate and severity of family violence. By prioritizing the voices of women and children over the profits of alcohol corporations, politicians have the opportunity to make generational change in addressing gender-based violence and violence against children. Kym Valentine, a family violence survivor-advocate and former Chair of Victoria’s Victim Survivors’ Advisory Council, emphasizes the importance of creating safe homes for women and children.
The fight against gender-based violence and violence against children is at a critical juncture, with politicians being urged to prioritize the safety of those affected by family violence. By heeding the calls for evidence-based discussions on the role of alcohol in violence and making simple policy changes, governments can make a significant impact on reducing harm to women and children. Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT for individuals in need of assistance. It is crucial that urgent action is taken to create safer homes for vulnerable individuals and protect them from harm.
