The Australian federal government plans to introduce national standards for Men’s Behaviour Change Programs, with the aim of having all states and territories implement the standards by the end of 2026. The move is intended to improve program quality and strengthen efforts to prevent family violence against women and children.
The proposed standards would require service providers to conduct risk assessments and ensure victims and children have access to appropriate support during and after the programs. The programs cover a range of approaches, including one-day sessions teaching boys about respectful relationships, as well as months-long intervention programs for men who have used violence against their partners or children.
The sector has broadly welcomed the introduction of national standards. Jesuit Social Services’ Men’s Project said consistent standards would improve program quality, strengthen accountability and better protect victim-survivors. Relationships Australia Victoria also said national standards could improve consistency across different organisations providing these services.
However, several family violence prevention organisations warned that standards alone would not be enough. They said the government must increase funding for frontline services and prevention programs to meet growing demand. The federal government is currently developing the second action plan under the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children, which is expected to be released in the first half of 2027.
Commentary:
In the past, the quality and content of Men’s Behaviour Change Programs varied between states and service providers. Establishing national standards could improve consistency and ensure participants are properly supported to recognise and change harmful behaviours.
However, family violence is a complex issue that cannot be addressed through counselling programs alone. Greater investment is also needed in frontline services, victim support and early education.
At the same time, these programs need to balance accountability and support. Their purpose is not to reduce responsibility for perpetrators, but to help them address their behaviour while keeping the safety of victims as the priority and reducing the risk of further violence.