Foundations for family and domestic violence perpetrator intervention systems

Abstract

This report, developed by the RMIT Centre for Innovative Justice and Stopping Family Violence Inc., explores the foundational principles required for effective perpetrator intervention systems in response to family and domestic violence (FDV). It examines key themes including perpetrator accountability, risk assessment, systems responses, and victim-survivor safety. The report proposes twelve foundational elements for perpetrator intervention, covering concepts such as collective responsibility, dynamic risk management, intersectionality, and engagement with community networks. The study highlights the importance of collaborative, multi-agency approaches to monitoring perpetrators, ensuring system-wide accountability, and improving intervention outcomes. By outlining a framework for mapping roles and responsibilities within FDV responses, the report provides insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers working to strengthen perpetrator intervention systems in Australia.