When we have an excessive need for affirmation, we can sometimes try to extract it from the very person who gives it to us. Understanding this underlying dynamic is essential if we want to address and ultimately stop domestic violence.
Domestic violence is never justifiable. Yet, what drives such behaviour is often less astonishing than the act itself. According to Psychology Today, author Hara Estroff Marano notes that one key cause of domestic violence is the overwhelming need for affirmation—a need that, when unmet, can manifest as rage, control, or abuse.
Recognising the root of domestic violence is only the first step. Ensuring victims are protected and supported is where the law, and experienced lawyers, play a critical role.
Support and Protection for Those Facing Domestic Violence
Domestic violence remains one of the most pressing social issues in Australia. The statistics paint a sobering picture:
- 1 in 6 women and 1 in 16 men have experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner since the age of 15 (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).
- On average, one woman per week is killed by a current or former partner (Our Watch).
- In 2022, over 116,000 family and domestic violence-related assaults were reported to police nationwide (Australian Bureau of Statistics).
- Migrant women and new arrivals are often at higher risk due to a lack of awareness about Australian laws and available support services (Australian Government – Department of Social Services).
These numbers highlight the urgent need for both awareness and legal intervention.
Understanding Coercive Control – The Hidden Side of Abuse
Domestic violence is not always physical. Coercive control is now recognised as one of the most dangerous forms of abuse, often acting as a precursor to physical violence. It involves repeated behaviours that dominate, isolate, and instil fear in a partner.
Examples include:
- Monitoring phone calls, messages, or movements
- Restricting access to money, transport, or essential needs
- Isolating a partner from friends or family
- Using threats, humiliation, or intimidation
- Controlling daily routines and decisions
In July 2024, NSW became the first state to criminalise coercive control under the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022. This means it is now a criminal offence for a current or former intimate partner to use these patterns of abuse.
📖 Source: NSW Government – Criminalising Coercive Control
Sydney Suburbs with Notable Domestic Violence Rates
Domestic and family violence rates remain a serious concern across New South Wales, with some regions experiencing significantly higher levels than others. Regional areas such as the New England and Northwest continue to record some of the highest domestic and family violence assault rates per capita, while in metropolitan Sydney, North Sydney and Hornsby have been identified as having elevated rates compared with other city regions. Within Sydney suburbs, several areas have shown alarming upward trends: the Sutherland Shire reported a 47.5% increase in domestic violence-related assaults between 2018 and 2022, while Baulkham Hills and the Hawkesbury recorded a 40.2% rise over the same period. The Inner West also saw a 31.1% increase in reported incidents, highlighting a consistent escalation. These patterns demonstrate that while domestic violence affects communities across the state, certain regions and suburbs face especially acute challenges, underscoring the need for targeted support, prevention, and intervention strategies.
Areas Identified as Very High or Increasing Fast
Here are some suburbs / regions flagged by recent reports:
- Overview: Mount Druitt has consistently reported the highest number of domestic violence incidents in Sydney.
- Contributing Factors: Economic challenges, social disadvantage, and higher concentrations of public housing contribute to the elevated rates.
- Recent Trends: While specific recent data is limited, historical trends indicate a persistent concern in this area.
- Overview: The Sutherland Shire recorded a significant 47.5% increase in domestic violence-related assaults between 2018 and 2022.
- Recent Trends: This suburb has seen a notable rise in reported incidents, highlighting a growing concern.
- Overview: Baulkham Hills experienced a 40.2% increase in domestic violence-related assaults over a four-year period.
- Recent Trends: The suburb has seen a significant rise in reported incidents, indicating a need for increased awareness and intervention.
- Overview: The Inner West recorded a 31.1% increase in domestic violence-related assaults between 2018 and 2022.
- Recent Trends: This area has seen a steady rise in reported incidents, suggesting a need for targeted support and resources.
- Overview: The South West region experienced a 14.3% increase in domestic violence-related assaults over a four-year period.
- Recent Trends: While the increase is moderate, it still reflects a concerning upward trend in reported incidents.
- Inner Southwest Sydney (Postcodes: 2200–2205)
- Overview: This area saw a 13.3% increase in domestic violence-related assaults between 2018 and 2022.
- Recent Trends: The rise in reported incidents underscores the need for enhanced community support and legal interventions.
- Blacktown (Postcode: 2148)
- Overview: Blacktown is among the suburbs with higher rates of domestic violence-related assaults.
- Contributing Factors: Factors such as lower household income levels, higher unemployment, and larger concentrations of public housing contribute to the elevated rates.
- Bankstown (Postcode: 2200)
- Overview: Bankstown has reported a significant number of domestic violence-related incidents.
- Recent Trends: The suburb has seen a notable rise in reported incidents, highlighting a growing concern.
- Parramatta (Postcode: 2150)
- Overview: Parramatta has experienced an increase in domestic violence-related assaults over recent years.
- Recent Trends: The area has seen a steady rise in reported incidents, suggesting a need for targeted support and resources.
- Penrith (Postcode: 2750)
- Overview: Penrith is among the suburbs with higher rates of domestic violence-related assaults.
- Contributing Factors: Factors such as economic challenges and social disadvantage contribute to the elevated rates.
- Campbelltown (Postcode: 2560)
- Overview: Campbelltown has reported a significant number of domestic violence-related incidents.
- Recent Trends: The suburb has seen a notable rise in reported incidents, highlighting a growing concern.
- Sutherland Shire (Postcode: 2230)
- Overview: The Sutherland Shire recorded a significant 47.5% increase in domestic violence-related assaults between 2018 and 2022.
- Recent Trends: This suburb has seen a notable rise in reported incidents, highlighting a growing concern.
Source: LiSTNR Articles, Parliament of NSW
Can You Give What You Don’t Have Yourself?
Research into domestic violence has revealed a key insight: often, perpetrators of violence are seeking affirmation and support that their partners cannot provide at a specific point in time.
When this need is unmet, it can escalate to emotional, social, spiritual, or physical abuse. For new immigrants to Australia, understanding local laws is vital, as actions like restricting movement or denying access to children or finances are considered abuse under Australian law.
Victims do not have to tolerate abuse. Every person has the right to safety, freedom, and dignity guaranteed by society and the law.
Domestic Violence Lawyers Sydney – Protection and Justice
For victims of domestic violence, the legal system provides essential protections. In situations of immediate danger, contacting police is the first step, as their primary role is to secure your safety.
Once safety is established, expert legal guidance is critical. A firm like Platinum Lawyers can help you understand your legal options, including applying for an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO).
What Is an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO)?
An AVO is designed to protect victims from ongoing physical, emotional, or social abuse. You can obtain an AVO against:
- A current or former partner
- Someone you have been in an intimate relationship with
- Neighbours or individuals harassing you through stalking or intimidation
Importantly, if you wish to continue living with a partner but need legal protection, an AVO can be arranged to suit your circumstances.
How Platinum Lawyers Can Help
Facing domestic violence can feel overwhelming. At Platinum Lawyers, victims receive not only expert legal advice but also compassionate support throughout the entire process. With coercive control now a criminal offence in NSW (since July 2024), victims need clear guidance on their rights and the protections available. At Platinum Lawyers, we combine our family law and criminal law expertise to ensure clients facing coercive control are fully supported.
Here’s how we help:
FAQs – How Platinum Lawyers Protect You
- How can Platinum Lawyers help victims of domestic violence?
We provide urgent legal advice, assist with AVO applications, and represent clients in court to ensure safety and rights are protected. - Can Platinum Lawyers help with an AVO?
Yes. We specialise in urgent and long-term AVO applications. - Do you represent both women and men?
Absolutely. Domestic violence affects all genders, and our services are available to everyone. - Can you help clients leave an abusive relationship?
Yes. We guide clients on their rights, organise urgent protection orders, and assist with family law matters like custody, property, and financial support. - What if I want to stay with my partner but need protection?
We can secure an AVO that allows you to live together while protecting you from abuse. - Are consultations confidential?
Yes. Privacy and sensitivity are a core part of our service. - How quickly can Platinum Lawyers act in emergencies?
We provide same-day advice and urgent legal applications for clients in danger. - How can Platinum Lawyers help with coercive control?
Platinum Lawyers provide urgent legal advice, assist with Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs), represent clients in court, and guide victims through the new 2024 NSW coercive control laws. They also handle related family law issues like custody, property, and financial disputes. - Can Platinum Lawyers assist with child custody or property matters affected by coercive control?
Absolutely. They manage family law matters alongside protection orders to ensure safety and fair outcomes for children and property. - Can you assist with child custody and safety?
Yes. We handle parenting orders and custody arrangements to ensure children are safe. - Do you coordinate with police and support services?
Yes. Collaboration strengthens your case and ensures protection. - Do you help new immigrants understand Australian law?
Yes. We provide multilingual support and clear explanations of legal rights. - What makes Platinum Lawyers different?
Over 20 years of experience, a 99% success rate, and a compassionate, client-focused approach. - How do I contact Platinum Lawyers?
Call (02) 8084 2764 or submit an enquiry online for a confidential consultation.
Why Platinum Lawyers Are Trusted in High-Risk Suburbs
Domestic violence is often underreported, especially in suburbs with higher rates. Platinum Lawyers have built a reputation in high-risk Sydney suburbs such as:
- Mt Druitt
- Bankstown
- Blacktown
- Parramatta
- Penrith
- Campbelltown
- Sutherland Shire
With over 20 years of experience, we combine legal expertise with sensitivity, ensuring victims are not only legally protected but also supported emotionally.
Platinum Lawyers’ Approach
- Compassionate Legal Support: Every client is treated with care and understanding.
- Local Knowledge: Familiarity with courts, police, and support services in Sydney suburbs.
- Comprehensive Services: From AVOs to family law, property, and financial matters.
- Confidentiality: Protecting your privacy is our top priority.
Additional Resources
At Platinum Lawyers, we encourage clients to access reliable information:
- Attorney-General’s Department – Coercive Control in Family and Domestic Violence
- AIHW – Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Overview
- Services Australia – What is Family and Domestic Violence?
- Family Violence Law Help – Understanding Domestic and Family Violence
Platinum Lawyers: Your Partner in Safety and Justice
In high-risk suburbs, victims of domestic violence rely on our expertise to navigate complex legal processes with confidence and dignity. Our goal is simple: achieving optimal client outcomes while ensuring safety and protection.
If you are facing domestic violence in Sydney, you do not have to face it alone. Contact Platinum Lawyers today for a confidential consultation:
- Phone: (02) 8084 2764
Protect yourself, protect your children, and take the first step toward safety with Platinum Lawyers—the trusted legal experts in Sydney’s high-risk suburbs.