The role of men’s behaviour change programs in addressing men’s use of domestic, family and sexual violence: An evidence brief

Abstract

This evidence brief explores the role of men’s behaviour change programs (MBCPs) in addressing domestic, family, and sexual violence in Australia. It synthesises existing research and practice-based evidence on MBCPs, including their structure, effectiveness, and contribution to broader systemic responses. The report highlights the complexity of behaviour change, the need for a coordinated service ecosystem, and the limitations of MBCPs in achieving transformative change in isolation. It discusses key components that support program effectiveness, including family safety contact, place-based approaches, and pre- and post-group supports. The evidence brief also examines the economic benefits of investing in perpetrator interventions and provides recommendations for enhancing MBCPs to improve safety outcomes for victim-survivors.<br><br> This Evidence Brief was written by ANROWS staff in partnership with No to Violence and independent consultant Rodney Vlais. It provides a summary of the literature on men’s behaviour change programs (MBCPs), focusing primarily on their role in addressing domestic, family and sexual violence in Australia.<br><br>

The evidence brief synthesises what is known about MBCPs based on available peer-reviewed and grey literature, and practice-based evidence. The brief was used as a basis for discussion at a roundtable “Engaging Men and Boys - what's next?” convened by the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission on 12 November 2024.