Equipping Managers to Recognise and Respond to Domestic Violence

Equipping Managers to Recognise and Respond to Domestic Violence

Equipping managers to recognise and respond to domestic violence is essential for building a safe and compassionate workplace. Managers are often the first to notice behavioural changes in their teams. With the right training, they can identify warning signs and provide support with empathy and professionalism. This approach not only protects employees—it also fosters trust, retention, and a more resilient organisational culture.

Training managers and supervisors to recognise signs of domestic violence and respond appropriately is vital for creating a safe, supportive workplace. Since managers are often the first to notice changes in employee behaviour, they must know what to look for and how to respond with care. With the right training, organisations can ensure that their leaders are ready to act with empathy and confidence.

Family Violence Mindset Solutions offers a Coercive Control Course to help managers identify and address domestic violence in the workplace.

Manager Training on Recognising and Responding to Domestic Violence

  1. Recognising Domestic Violence Warning Signs
    Managers should be trained to notice indicators such as frequent absences, sudden drops in performance, visible anxiety, or signs of physical harm. These clues can be subtle but significant.

  2. Responding with Care and Sensitivity
    Knowing how to start supportive, non-judgmental conversations is key. Training should equip managers with language that encourages trust and allows employees to share voluntarily.

  3. Maintaining Confidentiality and Setting Boundaries
    Managers must understand how to protect employee privacy while complying with relevant workplace and legal policies. Visit Fair Work Ombudsman to review Australian workplace rights around domestic violence leave.

  4. Providing Immediate Support Resources
    Training should include guidance on referring employees to counselling, legal aid, or safety planning services. Include referrals to external support like 1800RESPECT, a national helpline in Australia.

  5. Following Up Without Overstepping
    A trained manager should know how to check in respectfully and adapt working conditions—such as flexible hours or remote options—to support recovery and safety.

Creating a Workplace That Supports Domestic Violence Disclosure

When organisations commit to equipping managers to recognise and respond to domestic violence, they demonstrate real care for employee wellbeing. With the right training, managers can respond compassionately and confidently.

Explore Family Violence Mindset Solutions for resources that help your business build safer, more supportive workplace practices.

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