About this resource: This project, Women, disability and violence: Creating access to justice, draws on the insights of 36 women with disability living in New South Wales and Victoria who outlined their experiences of seeking justice and security in the context of violence that they had experienced. 

Women with disability in Australia are recognised as facing significant challenges in accessing justice in relation to violence that they experience. Violence may include physical and sexual violence as well as other forms of abuse such as coercive control, emotional abuse, financial abuse, and physical and social isolation. The majority of the cases captured in this report were instances of domestic and family violence, broadly defined, meaning they occurred within a family or caring context. In addition, violence may take particular forms such as withholding required medications or aids, limiting access to disability support services or mainstream service providers, and threats related to women’s mothering and care-giving roles. Avenues to seek desired justice, which may include prevention of future violence, everyday security and safety, and consequences for the perpetrators of violence are complex, as justice services and pathways may not effectively support the access of women with disability. 

Read the full report here.

Applying this resource: For organisations and practitioners working with people with disability.