New survey of young Australians uncovers ‘worrying’ attitudes towards domestic violence

Young people are less likely to support gender equality in relationships and have less understanding of the nature of domestic violence, new research shows.

The survey, conducted by VicHealth, uncovered some worrying attitudes of young Australians aged 16-24.

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter told 3AW Breakfast it was very concerning.

‘This report that we’ve released today does show that young people are more likely to tolerate violence against women than their parents generation,’ she said.

Key findings in the Young Australian’s Attitudes towards Violence Against Women report:

• 46% of young people agree that tracking a partner by electronic means without consent is acceptable
• 1/4 of young people agree that partner violence can be excused if the person regrets it later
• 1/4 of young people agree that partner violence can be excused if the person gets so angry they lose control
• 50% of young people recognise that women are more likely than men to experience fear as a result of partner violence
• 57% of young people believe that a main cause of violence against women is men being unable to manage their anger
• One in five young Australians believe there are circumstances in which women bear part of the responsibility for sexual assault