Domestic Violence: Men’s ‘Behaviour Change’ Programs

Domestic Violence: Men’s ‘Behaviour Change’ Programs

Domestic Violence in Family Law

Domestic and family violence is an issue often raised or identified in family law matters and court proceedings particularly where children are involved.

Established in 1994, DVNQ is a local charity operating in North Qld which provides free and confidential services for people experiencing domestic and family violence. DVNQ provides response and therapeutic services to people experiencing domestic and family violence. They also provide a prevention service, by way of the Men’s Behaviour Change MenTER program.

There will be a new program commencing next year (2026) in Townsville, that will be for women who use violence in relationships.

Men’s ‘Behaviour Change’ Programs

Where the court identifies family violence as a risk in families, it is often recommended that the perpetrator attends a Men’s Behaviour Change Program. Programs like this seek to address concerns and work towards changing the behaviours and attitudes that lead to domestic and family violence. The program also seeks to provide the perpetrator with insight into the impact these behaviours have had, not only on their current or former partner, but also and most importantly, their children.

Programs and courses are often recommended and ordered by the Court when there are proceedings. However, the program will only be beneficial where a person actively engages in the program and seeks to change previous or existing patterns of behaviour that have led to domestic and family violence.

Is it ‘bad for my case’ to volunteer to complete a ‘Behaviour Change’ program?

Clients will often ask if it will be ‘bad for their case’ to voluntarily engage in such a program. The answer is no. In fact, it will be the opposite.

If you are ready, willing and able and volunteer to complete a program. This shows you wish to learn more, obtain insight and work towards changing behaviours for the benefit of your children. Accordingly, that will be considered favourably by the Court.

DVNQ Programs on offer in Townsville

I recently attended an information workshop with a local service that facilitates a Mens Behaviour Change Program called MenTER.

The MenTER program is for men who commit domestic and family violence towards women and children.

MenTER offers a guided space for men who wish to reflect and identify their own patterns of behaviour that have led to their abuse and who are seeking to make changes for the sake of their children.

Currently, the MenTER program runs for 20 weeks and covers a variety of topics.

Sessions are usually held:

1. Tuesdays from 6pm to 8pm (face to face session)
2. Wednesdays from 1pm to 3pm (face to face session); and
3. Thursdays from 6pm to 8pm (Online sessions).

If you require more information about Men’s Behaviour Change Programs in Townsville, you can find it here:         https://dvnq.org.au/prevention-service-townsville