Listen to the episode
This episode of Messages of hope is on the topic of family and domestic violence. It contains information that may be distressing. If you need to talk to someone about the issues raised in this program, call 1800RESPECT for free confidential counselling.
‘No one is immune to domestic and family violence’
Professor Sarah Wendt has dedicated her life to understanding the impacts of domestic violence, and hearing the stories of victims and survivors in Australia. Hear her insights from personal stories about the causes and effects and where we may find hope in such a painful topic.
Key takeaways from this episode
- Domestic violence affects everyone: it crosses all social, cultural, and economic boundaries — no one is immune.
It’s about control, not conflict: domestic violence isn’t about arguments; it’s about coercive control — intimidation, fear, isolation, and power over a partner.
Abuse takes many forms: beyond physical harm, it includes emotional, psychological, financial, social, and even spiritual abuse, such as restricting access to money, isolating someone, or misusing scripture to justify harm.
Trust your instincts: if you feel unsafe, fearful, or constantly walking on eggshells, listen to your gut — fear is an important warning signal.
Believe and support victims: when someone discloses abuse, the most powerful thing you can do is believe them, listen without judgment, and connect them to help like 1800RESPECT.
Gender inequality fuels violence: research shows a strong link between domestic violence and gender inequality — while alcohol or stress can worsen behaviour, they don’t cause it.
There is hope and change: growing awareness, education, and respectful conversations — especially among young men, schools, and churches — are helping shift attitudes toward equality and respect.
Faith and community can lead change: the church has an important role in confronting and addressing domestic violence through theological leadership on love, respect, and equality.
Episode transcript
Click to view PDF transcript
Related booklet
Domestic violence has no boundaries, and it does not care about social standing, age, ethnicity, or religion. It traps its victims in a very lonely and frightening prison. A woman in such a situation often feels isolated and alone, as if she is the only one in this horrible situation. But there is hope.
This booklet is designed to answer questions and help you understand domestic violence.
