Domestic violence risk assessment tools and Australian homelessness services: A scoping review

Abstract

This scoping review examines domestic and family violence (DFV) risk assessment tools used in Australian homelessness services, with a particular focus on appropriateness for First Nations clients. The review identifies a significant gap in peer-reviewed literature and policy regarding culturally appropriate risk assessment tools for homelessness services, despite the high prevalence of DFV among women and children experiencing homelessness. The study finds that most state and territory governments recommend DFV screening by non-specialist services such as homelessness organisations, but tools vary widely in scope and content, and none contain First Nations-specific screening questions. The review critiques the suitability of the widely implemented CRASF Level 1 tool in Queensland, highlighting its potential for assessor confusion and cultural inappropriateness. Recommendations include adopting screening practices from the Northern Territory framework, which provide culturally sensitive language prompts, and developing a national DFV risk assessment tool that includes protocols tailored for First Nations clients. The study calls for urgent research into effective and culturally safe DFV risk assessment approaches in homelessness settings.