In a significant move to address alcohol-related family violence, Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner Micaela Cronin has underscored the urgent need for stricter regulation of harmful industries, particularly alcohol. This call to action has been met with a commitment from Australia’s premiers and chief ministers to review and enhance liquor laws, sharing best practices to mitigate the adverse effects of alcohol on domestic violence rates.
Statistics shed light on the gravity of the issue: alcohol is implicated in 23% to 65% of all police-reported family violence incidents. Disturbingly, in the period from 2021 to 2022, nearly half of the women who were sexually assaulted reported that alcohol or another substance played a role in the incident. These figures highlight the critical need for regulatory reform, especially as online alcohol sales and delivery have surged post-pandemic, amplifying access and potential harm.
Children, often silent victims, bear the brunt of this crisis. Research indicates that one in six children have suffered harm due to the alcohol use of adults around them, with two-thirds of these cases involving an adult in their home. Their experiences of fear and trauma, often triggered by alcohol-fuelled violence, demand immediate attention and action.
The plea is clear: adults must act swiftly to dismantle the cycle of alcohol-induced harm and prioritise children’s safety. By addressing alcohol as a critical factor in family violence, Australia can make meaningful strides in tackling this national crisis. Listening to and advocating for the most vulnerable voices—those of children—is essential in this endeavour. Stricter alcohol laws are vital to protect families from harm. By tightening regulations, Australia can reduce the devastating impact of alcohol on domestic violence, especially on women and children. The time to act is now, ensuring safer homes for all. The time for decisive action is now, as the lives of many depend on it.
Source: Fare
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