327 Family and domestic violence in migrant and refugee communities – young people’s experiences and community priorities

OP 7: Parents and Children, B302 (FCSH), September 3, 2025, 15:45 - 16:45 Aims There are complex intersectional factors linking migration, culture, gender, age and marginalisation, which can increase risk and vulnerability in relation to family and domestic violence (FDV) for young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. However, there is limited research with this group and young people’s voices are underrepresented. This paper reports on an Australian study investigating young people’s experiences FDV in refugee and migrant communities, to identify their priorities and develop recommendations for improved prevention and support. Methods Interviews and focus groups were conducted with n = 49 young people (aged 13-22) and n = 20 adult FDV community educators from refugee and migrant communities in South Australia, alongside a national survey of n = 213 service providers from across key sectors. Results Participating young people highlighted stressors within families leading to conflict and noted repercussions and harm. However, they strongly emphasised taboo around sharing family business with anyone, describing a lack of trust in services including schools, as well as risks of negative outcomes for themselves and their family. Interviews with community educators highlighted community fears around visa rights and migration regulations, fear of child removal or family separation if justice systems were alerted, lack of understanding within the community about rights and services, and lack of cultural safety for those who did access services. They also identified a lack of focus on young people’s experiences and needs in community discussions around FDV. Almost all services providers (92%) said that barriers to support were greater/much greater for refugee and migrant communities compared to most other groups, and only around 20% felt that the sector met the needs of this group of young people well. Conclusions Recommendations from the study include increased funding and legal protections, more culturally safe services with an understanding of FDV and youth concerns, and the importance of community-led approaches.