Physical abuse is a serious issue that many Australians face, yet it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. It’s not just about visible injuries; it’s about power and control that can have devastating effects.
In Queensland, knowing how to recognise physical abuse and what the law says about it is critical for those experiencing it and those trying to help.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what physical abuse is, why it happens, and what the law says in Queensland. Most importantly, how you can get help or support someone you care about.
Let’s dive in and tackle this crucial issue together.
Need help breaking free from physical abuse? Our compassionate Queensland family lawyers at VM Family Law can guide you through your legal options and help you build a safer future. Call 07 3447 8966 today.
What is Physical Abuse?
Physical abuse is any deliberate act that causes physical harm or injury to another person. It can involve hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, or using an object to hurt someone.
These acts are not accidents. They’re intentional and meant to exert power or control over the victim.
This type of abuse can also include shaking, choking, burning, or using physical force that causes pain or leaves marks. Physical abuse often goes hand in hand with emotional abuse and can leave victims feeling scared, trapped, and powerless.
Common Examples and Forms of Physical Abuse
Physical abuse doesn’t always look the same. Some common examples include:
- Hitting or slapping a partner, child, or family member
- Punching, kicking, or pushing someone to the ground
- Choking or strangling to control or silence
- Burning someone intentionally
- Using weapons or objects to inflict harm
- Forcing someone into painful positions or restraining them
- Withholding medical care as a form of punishment
It’s important to remember that physical abuse is never justified, no matter the circumstances.
Physical Abuse Laws in Queensland
In Queensland, physical abuse is taken seriously under the law. The Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (Qld) is the key legislation that defines and protects victims of domestic violence, including physical abuse.
This Act covers a broad range of abusive behaviours; physical harm is one of the most severe and urgent.
Legal Protections and Penalties
Under Queensland law, victims of physical abuse can apply for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVO). A DVO can include conditions to keep the abusive person away and stop the violence.
Police can also issue temporary protection orders if there’s an immediate threat. Physical abuse is a criminal offence.
Depending on the severity, charges can include:
- Common assault
- Serious assault
- Grievous bodily harm
- Acts intended to cause harm
Penalties can involve fines, prison time, or both. The law also ensures victims can access safety planning and support services to help them leave an abusive situation.
Signs of Physical Abuse
Physical abuse often leaves visible and invisible marks. It’s crucial to know these signs so you can help yourself or someone else.
Physical Indicators
Physical abuse can show up as:
- Bruises in different stages of healing
- Cuts or scratches that aren’t explained
- Broken bones or sprains
- Burns or scalds
- Frequent injuries with odd excuses
- Wearing long sleeves or heavy clothing to hide injuries
These injuries may appear in places that don’t make sense for day-to-day accidents, like bruises on the neck, back, or upper arms.
Emotional and Behavioural Signs
Physical abuse doesn’t only harm the body. It deeply affects how a person feels and acts. Look for:
- Sudden anxiety or fear around certain people
- Isolation from friends and family
- Depression, mood swings, or withdrawal
- Low self-esteem or feeling worthless
- Nervousness or jumpiness when someone raises their voice
- In case of children, they may become unusually quiet, struggle at school, or seem scared of going home.
How to Identify if Someone is Experiencing Physical Abuse
If you’re worried about someone, trust your instincts. You might see:
- Frequent injuries without clear explanations
- Excuses that don’t add up
- Personality changes like being more withdrawn or scared
- Signs of control by a partner or family member
If you suspect someone is in danger, speak to them gently and offer your support. Encourage them to get help, but never force them to talk if they’re not ready.
For legal guidance on physical abuse and family violence matters in Queensland, reach out to the caring Queensland family lawyers at VM Family Law. Call 07 3447 8966 for compassionate advice and real help when you need it most.
How to Get Help for Physical Abuse in Queensland
If you’re experiencing physical abuse, you’re not alone. There are trusted services and supports in Queensland ready to help you stay safe and find a way forward.
Contacting the Queensland Police Service
- Emergency: Call 000 immediately if you’re in danger.
- Non-urgent help: Call Policelink on 131 444 or visit Queensland Police Service.
Police officers can help with immediate protection and guide you to other services.
For other Queensland police stations, click here.
Local Support Services
- DVConnect (24/7 confidential crisis support): Call 1800 811 811 or visit DVConnect.
- 1800RESPECT (24/7 national hotline): Call 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.
- Child Safety Services: Call 1800 177 135 if a child is at risk of harm.
Emergency Contacts and Hotlines
- Kids Helpline (for young people): 1800 55 1800
- Lifeline (for anyone needing immediate emotional support): 13 11 14
- National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service: Visit 1800RESPECT
Reach Out to Family Lawyers
Family lawyers in Queensland, such as VM Family Law, can explain your legal rights, represent you in court for protection orders, help you develop a safety plan, and provide guidance on how to protect yourself and your children from ongoing physical abuse.
What to Do if You’re Experiencing Physical Abuse
Aside from calling the police, emergency services, or specific authorities, you can take other practical steps to protect yourself and stay safe.
These actions are realistic and practical and can make a big difference.
- Tell someone you trust: this might be a friend, family member, or someone you feel safe with.
- Plan a safe exit: identify a place you can go in an emergency, such as a family member’s house or a domestic violence shelter.
- Prepare an emergency bag: pack essentials like important documents, phone charger, keys, money, and any medication you need.
- Avoid arguments if it could lead to more danger: focus on staying calm and safe if you’re in immediate danger.
- Create a safety plan: include things like:
- Practicing how to leave quickly
- Teaching children what to do
- Keeping a list of emergency contacts in a safe spot
- Staying in touch with someone you trust about your situation
Remember, these steps can make a big difference in keeping you safe while you work out what to do next.
If you’re living with domestic violence, our Queensland family lawyers at VM Family Law can help you feel safe and supported. Reach out today on 07 3447 8966 to explore your next legal steps with empathy and understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the definition of physical abuse?
Physical abuse is any deliberate act that causes physical harm to another person, often within a family relationship or informal care relationship. It can also involve exposing someone to family violence, creating a sense of safety risk and harm to children.
What is an example of a physical assault?
A physical assault can include hitting, punching, kicking, or using an object to harm someone. These types of abuse can occur alongside other abusive behaviour, such as emotional abuse or child sexual exploitation.
What are the types of physical abuse?
Types of abuse include hitting, punching, kicking, choking, and using weapons, as well as severe child abuse that can lead to future harm. These actions put the victim’s personal safety and emotional well-being at an unacceptable risk.
What are the 5 mandatory reporting?
In Queensland, mandatory reporting is required for suspicions of harm to children, including child sexual abuse, physical violence, exposure to family violence, and serious neglect.
Health professionals, child safety officers, and teachers are some of the mandatory reporters who must report suspicions to Child Safety or the police.
How to manage physical abuse?
Managing physical abuse involves reporting suspicions to police or child protection services, and getting support from domestic violence counselling services or violence support services.
Family and Child Connect, government or non-government agencies, and confidential counselling services can also help with emotional well-being and practical support.
What mandatory reporting is required in Queensland?
Mandatory reporting laws in Queensland require care professionals and health professionals to report suspicions of harm or child abuse to child protection services, including Family and Child Connect.
This applies to suspicions of sexual abuse, severe child abuse, or other concerns involving children, Aboriginal child safety concerns, or exposure to family violence.
What is the punishment for physical abuse in Australia?
The punishment for physical abuse can include fines, community service, and imprisonment depending on the severity of the offence. The Queensland Government and courts consider the type of child protection matter, future harm, and the context of the abusive relationships when determining legal penalties.
Final Thoughts
Addressing physical abuse isn’t easy, but taking the first step is so important. Remember, you’re not alone, help and understanding are out there.
VM Family Law is a specialist family law firm with offices in Ipswich and Springfield, serving wider Queensland. We are one of the first law firms in Queensland to focus on domestic and family violence matters, working closely with DV and family violence organisations.
Our family lawyers can help you understand your rights, apply for protection orders, and work with you to create a plan that puts your safety first. If you’re ready to take the next step or simply want clear advice, call us on 07 3447 8966 today.
