Family Violence and Education: Review of the Evidence on Impacts of Violence and Responding to Violence in the Education Sector Report

This literature review, prepared by Equality Institute for the Victorian Department of Education and Training, examines the impacts of family violence on children and young people, and explores effective responses within the education sector. Family violence is a significant public health issue in Australia, affecting approximately one in four women since age 15, with children often experiencing direct victimisation or exposure through witnessing violence at home.

The review synthesises evidence from over 200 reports at state, national, and international levels, highlighting the profound and lasting effects of family violence on development, learning, and wellbeing. It also surveys current early identification, intervention, and response programs in schools, evaluating what works to support children and young people.

The findings underscore the importance of recognising children and youth as victims in their own right, and provide an evidence base to guide policy and practice in the education sector. By understanding the impacts of family violence and identifying effective interventions, this report supports the development of safer, more responsive educational environments for all students.