Embedding legal support in a safe space for new mothers

Pregnancy and the postpartum period increase the risk of family violence. Research suggests that 29% of first-time Australian mothers experience family violence before their child turns four, and children whose mothers experienced family violence in the first 12 months postpartum were more likely to have emotional and/or behavioural difficulties at age four.

Despite the crucial role that legal support plays in helping women experiencing family violence, such as securing protection orders and navigating family law matters, many women don’t access legal help during this time. They may not recognise their need as ‘legal’ or have the means to proactively seek assistance from a lawyer.

With the support of the Jack Brockhoff Foundation, Southside Justice piloted running free legal clinic embedded within St Kilda’s MCH service. The Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence recognised the important role of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services in early intervention. MCH services are often a place where women feel safe to first disclose experiences of family violence, making them an important service for identifying and appropriately referring women for further support.

The positive impact of this pilot is exemplified in Miriam’s story.

Miriam’s story

Miriam* arrived in Australia in 2022 and soon after married Harry. When she became pregnant, Harry’s violent behaviour escalated, resulting in a Family Violence Intervention Order being issued before the baby was born.

Three days before her intervention order was set to expire, a worried Miriam reached out to her Maternal & Child Health (MCH) nurse. Through our Health Justice Partnership (HJP) with the MCH service in the City of Port Phillip, the nurse quickly connected Miriam with our lawyer. With our help, the intervention order was extended, allowing Miriam to continue her life with her child with a renewed sense of safety. We are now supporting Miriam in applying for a divorce, helping her take the next step in moving forward with her life.

Working in partnership with local services is a core principle of Southside Justice. Miriam’s case is an example of how we can be more effective when we work together, providing timely, coordinated supported to keep women and their children safe.

*Name changed with permission

We’d like to thank the Jack Brockhoff Foundation and the City of Port Phillip for their partnership in this project.