Brief report: The prevalence and impact of child maltreatment in Australia: Findings from the Australian Child Maltreatment Study

Abstract

<p>This report presents the findings from the <a href="https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/22832">Australian Child Maltreatment Study (ACMS)</a>, the first nationally representative study to assess the prevalence of child maltreatment and its associated health outcomes in Australia. With data collected from over 8,500 Australians, the ACMS reveals that child maltreatment is highly prevalent, with significant impacts on mental and physical health persisting throughout life. The study finds that 62% of respondents experienced at least one type of maltreatment, with exposure to domestic violence being the most common, followed by physical abuse, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. The research highlights the particularly high rates of sexual and emotional abuse among young women and the prevalence of multi-type maltreatment, which increases vulnerability to various mental health disorders, including major depressive disorder and PTSD.</p> <p>Findings indicate that child maltreatment is associated with increased health risks, including substance dependence, self-harm, and suicidal ideation, underscoring the need for targeted prevention and intervention efforts. Furthermore, the ACMS provides an essential evidence base for developing precision public health initiatives and child protection policies in Australia. The report advocates for a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach to address the prevalence and impact of child maltreatment, with the aim of reducing harm and supporting survivors effectively through early intervention, support services, and policy reforms.</p>