This paper outlines the findings of an exploratory study conducted in a small rural community in South Australia in 2006. Human service providers, experienced in working with victims and/or perpetrators of domestic violence, were asked about their experiences and perceptions of perpetrator programs in small rural communities.
Specifically questions about the value of, and the factors impacting on, the availability of perpetrator programs in the rural context were explored. Alternative intervention options to address domestic violence perpetration were also discussed.
The key findings of the research were that concerns about anonymity, and community attitudes, which condoned male control of female partners, would prevent men from using behaviour change programs in small rural communities, and therefore impact on their viability. The implications for human service providers are outlined in the paper.

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