Family violence specialists are calling for greater awareness and earlier intervention to address adolescent violence in the home, saying more families are seeking help as abusive behaviour by teenagers becomes an emerging issue across Australia. The renewed focus follows the alleged murder of a Perth mother and the attempted killing of her daughter, in which a 16-year-old boy has been charged.
Advocates say adolescent violence in the home differs from ordinary teenage conflict. Instead of occasional arguments, it can involve intimidation, coercive control, threats, financial abuse and behaviours that cause parents or siblings to change how they live because they fear the young person's reactions.
Jolene Ellat, chief executive of the Domestic Abuse Resource and Training Institute (DART), said demand for specialist training on adolescent violence has increased over the past year as frontline workers report more families seeking assistance. She stressed that early recognition of concerning behaviours is critical to preventing further escalation.
Experts emphasise that there is no single cause of adolescent violence. Factors such as mental health challenges, neurodevelopmental differences, substance use and difficulties with emotional regulation may contribute, but they do not by themselves cause violent behaviour. Instead, specialists say each case requires careful assessment and tailored support.
Western Australia Police Commissioner Col Blanch said police have observed a broader increase in family violence reports, including incidents where children are using violence against parents or other family members. While comprehensive statistics specific to adolescent family violence are limited, authorities acknowledge it is an issue requiring greater attention.
Researchers and advocates argue that families often delay seeking help because they fear being judged or blamed. Parents may worry that asking for support reflects poorly on their parenting, even though experts emphasise responsibility for violent behaviour rests with the person using violence.
Specialists are calling for increased funding for family support services, counselling programs and practitioner training so families can access assistance before behaviours become entrenched. They also want greater public understanding that adolescent violence is a complex issue requiring both accountability and appropriate intervention.
Community leaders say preventing family violence is a shared responsibility involving governments, schools, health services, youth organisations and the broader community. Education, early support and accessible services are considered essential to reducing harm and improving outcomes for both young people and their families.
The discussion has prompted renewed calls for national investment in prevention programs that identify warning signs early, strengthen family relationships and ensure parents can seek help without stigma. Advocates believe early intervention offers the best opportunity to interrupt abusive behaviour before it escalates into serious violence.
