The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) brought together over 70 leaders from across various sectors at the Family Violence Symposium in Sydney in February 2026. The symposium aimed to understand how the family law system can better manage violence matters. Here’s what was discussed and how it may affect cases going forward.
Key takeaways
What the 2026 Family Violence Symposium Announced
The symposium involved professionals working in the domestic violence sector and legal aid, along with representatives of the government and the judiciary. The gathering’s three stated objectives were the following:
Addressing the incidence of parties abusing family violence law processes.
Improving the FCFCOA’s response to family violence risk and safety.
Enhancing equitable access to the justice system for vulnerable populations.
The proceedings also provided a crucial space for representatives of First Nations people. Community organisations and researchers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support services made important contributions. This reflects the FCFCOA’s commitment to creating pathways for Indigenous people to engage with the legal system in a safe and culturally sensitive way.
What These Reforms Mean for You in Practice
The symposium extends the work that the FCFCOA has already done to assist people in abusive relationships with an intimate partner, family member, or friend. The Court’s reforms have made concrete changes to how people affected by family violence connect with the law, including:
Earlier risk screening
The Lighthouse program is an innovative approach taken by the FCFCOA that manages family violence risks through early screening and triage of cases. This helps to identify parties at greater risk and provide mechanisms to speed up access to domestic violence protection orders, known as domestic violence orders (DVOs) in Queensland courts.
Better understanding of domestic violence factors
The Family Law Amendment Act 2024 explicitly included economic or financial abuse as part of the definition of family violence. It came into effect on 10 June 2025. This is in addition to factors, such as:
Psychological abuse.
Sexual violence/sexual harassment.
Physical abuse.
Coercive control.
Emotional abuse.
Threats and intimidation.
Dowry abuse is also now used as an example of how it can manifest.
New property settlement framework
When the FCFCOA makes orders for a property division, it’s now required to consider the impact of it on a party’s ability to contribute to an intimate relationship. It’s also now a factor that may affect a person’s future needs.
Awareness of legal system abuse
The FCFCOA is becoming increasingly aware of issues around the legal system being weaponised by perpetrators of family violence. This can include situations, such as:
Repeated applications in family law proceedings.
Multiple breaches of existing orders.
Deliberate delay tactics.
When to Get Legal Help
If you’re dealing with family violence issues, seeking legal advice early may be a big help. Getting legal assistance may be important in situations such as the following:
Urgent matters when getting assistance early to quickly apply for a DVO in the Magistrates Court for your family’s safety.
Procedural experience lawyer that has an understanding of domestic violence processes and family law matters may be able to create a coordinated strategy for clients.
Duty lawyers may be available as part of a legal aid program who may help with free legal advice or representation at a court date.
Conclusion
The FCFCOA is constantly reviewing its approach to domestic violence. Victims experiencing incidents such as sexual assault or physical violence require special consideration, especially when child protection is a concern. The Court’s recent symposium explored how the law can better respond to violence in ways that can have a material effect on how cases are handled.
Are you looking for a domestic and family violence lawyer?
Our domestic violence lawyers are available to provide legal representation to vulnerable clients. Contact us today for a free discovery call.
If you need assistance with counselling services or other support, please contact:
Lifeline: 13 11 14.
1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
DVConnect helpline (Queensland only): 1800 811 811
If you’re in immediate danger, contact 000.
Disclaimer: This article is general information. It is not intended to be legal advice. Outcomes in family law depend on your individual circumstances. Consider speaking with a family lawyer before making any legal decisions.
