Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in respect of the 2,136 spousal abuse cases in 2024 (a) how many involve counter-reports or cross-complaints filed by both parties; (b) what assessment protocols exist to identify the primary aggressor versus defensive responses; and (c) what safeguards prevent abusers from using counter-reports as a coercive control tactic.
Answer
1 Spousal abuse cases are managed by Protection Specialist Centres (PSCs) and Family Service Centres (FSCs). Currently, there is no detailed breakdown of spousal abuse cases, such as the number of counter reports or cross complaints, due to differences in how agencies record data.
2 Practitioners in PSCs and FSCs apply professional frameworks and practice guidelines to assess domestic violence dynamics. This includes conducting structured interviews with involved parties, reviewing prior reports and case histories, and undertaking relevant checks where appropriate. These processes enable professionals to make objective, evidence-informed assessments without pre-judgement, thereby reducing the risk of abusers misusing counter-reports as a coercive control tactic.
3 Members of the public who are experiencing abuse, or who know someone in an abusive relationship, are encouraged to seek help early by contacting the National Anti-Violence & Sexual Harassment Helpline (NAVH) at 1800-777-0000 or by making an online report.