Investigation reveals how abusers weaponise the Family Court
An investigation found 80% of Family Court cases involve domestic violence. Abusers use court to keep harassing their ex-partners after separation.
The Herald and Age investigation looks at systems abuse. That's when abusers use court processes to keep harassing their ex after separation.
More than 80 per cent of Family Court cases involve domestic violence. Abusers file baseless applications.
They make false allegations. They drag out proceedings with adjournments.
This drains victims of money and emotion. The court gets little scrutiny.
Reporting on family law is restricted to protect children's privacy. A 2025 parliamentary inquiry found the Family Court was unprepared to handle family violence.
Long proceedings keep victims tied to their abusers.
Why it mattersThe court should protect families. But abusers use it to trap victims in abuse and control.
AustraliaAustralian families in the Family Court are facing systems abuse with inadequate protections and support.
Corroborated byThe Sydney Morning Herald·WAtoday
