In their own right: Actions to improve children and young people's safety from domestic, family and sexual violence

This report is an evidence-based roadmap that consolidates findings from more than 20 research reports and over 130 policy and practice recommendations. The report argues that children and young people must be recognised as victim-survivors in their own right, rather than solely as witnesses to domestic, family and sexual violence. It centres the voices and lived experiences of children and young people to inform policy, service design and prevention efforts.

The report identifies significant gaps in current systems, where children's experiences, rights and perspectives are often overlooked. It highlights that exposure to violence can have lifelong impacts on mental and physical health, education, relationships and wellbeing, while increasing the risk of future violence and disadvantage. The report emphasises that responses must move beyond crisis intervention to include prevention, early intervention and recovery, ensuring children receive age-appropriate, trauma-informed and culturally safe support. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children's right to self-determination is identified as fundamental to effective policy and practice.

To drive meaningful reform, the report outlines four guiding principles and eight priority action areas. These include:
- Recognising the impact of violence on children and young people
- Centering the voices and needs of children
- Prioritising prevention, well-being, and safety 
- Acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s knowledge of what’s best for their children
- Design child-centered policies, systems, and supports
- Collaborating across systems for holistic service delivery 
- Investing in the skill development of trauma-informed care 
- Sharing knowledge across services working with victim-survivors