Women don’t know where to turn during ‘pervasive’ abuse

Women who experience economic exploitation often do not know where to turn for help, prompting advocates to seek specialist services to confront this scourge.

According to research from the Center for Women’s Economic Security, four in five women do not know where to seek support regarding economic abuse.

The data found that only 15 percent of victim survivors sought help, but almost 45 percent of them were unable to access support.

Economic abuse, experienced by one in six women and one in 13 men, occurs when a perpetrator causes emotional harm or fear by trying to prevent or control another person’s income, spending, bank accounts or other economic resources.

It often precedes physical violence and often occurs in conjunction with other forms of abuse.

Wednesday marks International Economic Exploitation Awareness Day and is celebrated during 16 days of activism against gender-based violence in November and December.

The centre’s founder, Rebecca Glenn, said economic abuse was common and often disguised as a form of domestic and family violence.

“This leaves women in precarious financial circumstances and impacts their well-being,” she said.

“Despite its prevalence, services supporting women experiencing economic exploitation are few and far between, meaning many women seeking support cannot find it.”

Confusing or difficult to navigate services, safety concerns, and lack of access to transportation or communication are just some of the barriers women face in accessing help.

“The provision of financial counseling, legal services and social service programs based on violence and trauma must be tailored to the unique challenges posed by economic abuse,” Ms. Glenn said.

“This requires investment in the provision of services and the promotion of services that support women experiencing economic exploitation.”

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

Lifeline 13 11 14

Male Referral Service 1300 766 491