Domestic and family violence involves an abuse of power, in an intimate partner relationship or after separating from a relationship. It can extend beyond physical violence and may involve the exploitation of power imbalances and patterns of abuse. According to the New South Wales Police Force, it is well documented that domestic and family violence is a significantly under-reported complex crime for which police can provide an effective response.
Patterns of domestic violence can include (but are not limited to) physical abuse, sexual assault, stalking, intimidation, verbal abuse and/or threats, threats to harm others as well as psychological abuse. There are many reasons why victims do not report domestic violence. Some fear there may be escalated violence, feelings of shame, thinking they will not be believed, the fear of being left with no financial security and fear of being isolated from children, family and friends.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2025):
- 1 in 6 women and 1 in 18 men in 2021-22 had experienced physical and/or sexual violence by a current or previous cohabiting partner since the age of 15
- 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men in 2021-22 had experienced emotional abuse by a current or previous cohabiting partner since the age of 15
- 1 in 6 women and 1 in 13 men had experienced economic abuse by a current or previous cohabiting partner since the age of 15
- 1 in 5 women and 1 in 16 men in 2021-22 had experienced sexual violence since the age of 15
Violence against women takes a significant toll on women’s long-term mental health, affecting families, communities, children, and society. While men are also victims of domestic violence, gender inequality must be addressed for the prevention of violence against women. According to Our Watch, Australia’s average total gender pay gap is 21.8%, this equates to women earning $28,425 less than men a year. While women comprise half (51.1%) of all employed persons in the labour force, women continue to be under-represented in managerial positions across all industries.
With the support of communities, government organisations and businesses, women may be more inclined to report domestic violence and feel supported. In addition, serious charges, penalties and measures must remain in place and adhered to for the protection of all those who suffer violence.
The Francom Effect
Often, Francom encounters serious and distressing cases of financial abuse and other forms of abuse where debt has been burdened to kin after a loved one’s death. Our team is trained to work with compassion, confidentiality, and respect, recognising that assistance can come in many different forms. Here at Francom we do our part in overcoming the gender inequality challenge by having over 50% of women in senior leadership positions with NO gender pay gap. Francom aims to create a safe, empowering space where financial wellness and mental stability becomes achievable and sustainable for all customers. Since 2019, Francom has helped over 4457 victims of domestic or family abuse through waiving over $6.1 million worth of debt or returning over $1.6 million worth of debt back to these individuals. With the aim to focus on a solutions-oriented approach, Francom believes that providing care and demonstrating moral practices that do not centre on revenue but focus on positive social impacts is what truly makes a difference.
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