Supporting Employees Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence: A Conversation with Sheree Schonian

Introduction: Why This Matters

May is Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month — a time to raise awareness, foster understanding, and advocate for meaningful change. In recognition of this important month, we spoke with one of our own: Sheree Schonian — a valued Wave International employee, passionate advocate, educator, and survivor of domestic violence. She has been working with us as a Document Controller, and beyond her professional role, she brings a powerful voice to the conversation around domestic and family violence. She endured many years in an abusive relationship before courageously breaking free. Drawing from her lived experience, Sheree generously shares her insights on how workplaces can better support employees facing domestic and family violence.

We are incredibly grateful for her willingness to share such a personal story — one that not only raises awareness but also offers practical guidance, signs to watch for, and ways organisations can create safer, more supportive work environments.

Sheree’s Journey: From Silence to Strength

Sheree grew up watching her mum in an abusive relationship, which led her to become protective and angry. Years later, she found herself trapped in a 16-year abusive relationship, experiencing various forms of abuse. Her children kept her going, and she knew she had to break the cycle for them and herself. Leaving was challenging, and rebuilding was even harder due to broken support systems. Sheree turned her pain into purpose, speaking up for every woman and child who feels invisible in this space. She fights to ensure survivors are heard, respected, and given the tools to rebuild.

“Leaving was one thing. Rebuilding was another. You already feel so alone when you are in it, but when I finally left, I realised just how broken the systems are too. This made me angry but also gave me clarity. I did not just survive I turned my pain into purpose. So, I started speaking up not just for me, but for every woman and child who feels invisible in this space. Today, I fight to make sure survivors aren’t just surviving that they are heard, respected, and given the tools to truly rebuild.” she shares.

Workplace as a Lifeline

She emphasises that domestic and family violence follows individuals into every part of their lives, including work. And that workplaces have the opportunity to be a lifeline by acknowledging and supporting employees facing domestic violence. Creating a culture where people feel seen and supported can make a significant difference.

“For me, being able to leave the house and be at work for 8 hours a day gave me space to breathe. It was the only place I felt even a little bit safe. Sometimes, the workplace is the only steady thing someone has while their whole world is falling apart. So, workplaces need to step up because they can literally be part of someone’s survival.” she reflects.

Signs of Domestic and Family Violence

Some signs are obvious, like injuries or sudden time off, but subtle signs are often missed. These include sudden changes in behaviour, distraction, anxiety, or a partner’s controlling behaviour. Trusting your gut and showing genuine care can be the first step in helping someone.

“I’ve seen it firsthand — I lived it. I used to come to work exhausted, emotionally drained, and constantly worried about what I’d go home to. I made excuses for bruises, isolated myself from colleagues, and was always trying to seem ‘fine’ even when I was falling apart inside.” she recollects.

Practical Steps Workplaces Can Take

Believing employees when they open up is crucial. Creating a safe, supportive environment with clear policies, paid FDV leave, flexible work options, and trained managers is essential. Confidentiality and connection are key to making employees feel supported.

Workplace policies set the tone for how an organisation responds to domestic and family violence. A good FDV policy should include confidentiality, non-discrimination, zero tolerance for retaliation, and clear support options. Policies should be actionable, visible, and regularly communicated.

Moreover, policies need to be communicated clearly and regularly, accessible, and supported by training. Regular check-ins on policy effectiveness and feedback from staff are essential. Policies should be a living, breathing part of the organisation.

“If a workplace shows they care, backs it up with clear, practical support, and foster a culture of trust and safety, that policy can be life-changing for someone.”

Role of Leaders, Managers and Coworkers

Leaders and managers play a critical role in supporting employees. They should create a safe, open environment, be trained to spot signs of domestic violence, and offer support without pushing. Leaders must model empathy, integrity, and understanding.

Leadership sets the tone for psychological safety. Creating clear communication channels, respecting confidentiality, and providing training are key. Visible and accessible support systems build trust and reinforce the company’s commitment to employee well-being.

Managers should not dismiss or downplay what employees say, pressure them to share more than they are comfortable with or try to solve the issue themselves. Providing the right resources and offering support while respecting the employee’s pace is crucial.

Coworkers can offer support by being empathetic without prying, checking in, and offering flexible work options. Respecting privacy and listening without judgment are essential.

Flexible hours, paid leave, and remote work can make a significant difference for survivors. These accommodations show real care and understanding, allowing survivors to rebuild their lives without fear of financial instability.

Comprehensive training programs should focus on recognising signs of domestic violence, handling sensitive disclosures, having supportive conversations, and creating a culture of safety. Regular awareness campaigns keep the issue top of mind.

Sheree’s Message of Strength and Hope: From One Survivor to Another

“I want you to know that you are not alone—even though it might feel that way right now. It’s completely normal to feel scared, but please know that you deserve to be supported, both at work and at home. There are laws and policies in place in the workplace to protect you, and the workplace can be a safe space for you to find help.
If you’re unsure or scared, start with external resources like a domestic violence helpline or a support service. Sometimes talking to someone who truly understands can be the first step in the right direction.”
You are strong, and there is hope. You deserve to live a life free of fear. You don’t have to go through this alone, reach out when you’re ready”

Domestic and family violence is an issue that requires daily attention and action. Creating a culture of safety, understanding, and change starts with small actions every day. Together, we can break the silence, start the conversation, and create lasting change.

Support Resources for Domestic and Family Violence Support

There are several critical resources that workplaces should promote to support employees experiencing domestic violence.

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): These confidential services can offer counselling, legal advice, and more. It’s essential that all employees are aware of these services and how to access them.
• FDV Leave and Flexible Work Policies: Workplaces should clearly communicate their FDV leave options and flexible working arrangements. These policies can make a significant difference for employees trying to manage their personal safety while maintaining their work responsibilities.
• Safe Reporting Channels: Having a confidential and safe reporting channel for employees to disclose their situation is key. This could be through a designated HR contact or a trusted staff member.

National Support (Australia-Wide)

These services are available across Australia and offer 24/7 support:

• 1800RESPECT
  1800 737 732
  A 24/7 national helpline providing confidential counselling, information, and referral for anyone affected by domestic or sexual violence.
• Daisy App
  Developed by 1800RESPECT, this app connects users to local services and provides information on DFV support.
• Women’s Health and Family Services (WHFS)
  Offers Australia-wide access to counselling, advocacy, emergency accommodation, and support programs for women rebuilding after domestic violence.
• Men’s Referral Service (No to Violence)
  1300 766 491 | ntv.org.au
  Counselling and support for men who use violence or are concerned about their behaviour.
• MensLine Australia
  1300 789 978 | mensline.org.au
  Support for men dealing with family and relationship difficulties, including DFV.

• Services Australia – Family and Domestic Violence
  servicesaustralia.gov.au/family-and-domestic-violence
  Assistance with accessing payments, legal and housing support, and connecting to local services. Services Australia

Western Australia (WA-Specific Support)

Tailored to individuals and families based in WA:

• DVassist
  Provides information and practical support for people in regional and remote WA affected by domestic violence, including legal advice, safe housing options, and counselling.
• Domestic Violence Advocacy Service (DVAS) (Perth-based)
  Offers direct support to women and children in Perth, including safety planning, court support, and referrals.
• Women’s Refuge Network (WA)
  Offers shelter and emergency accommodation for women and children escaping violence, along with support in safety planning and transition.
• Legal Aid WA
  Provides free or low-cost legal advice and representation in cases of family law, restraining orders, and domestic violence matters.

Queensland (QLD)–Specific Support Services

Helplines

• DVConnect Womensline
  1800 811 811 (24/7)
  Offers crisis counselling, safety planning, transport, and access to women’s shelters across Queensland.
• DVConnect Mensline
  1800 600 636 (9am–midnight, 7 days)
  Provides counselling, referral, and support for men experiencing or using violence.
• Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ)
  1800 957 957
  Free legal advice and support for women affected by domestic violence, family law, and child protection issues.

Legal & Advocacy Services

• Legal Aid Queensland
  1300 65 11 88
  Free or low-cost legal advice and representation for protection orders, family law, and related matters.
• Community Legal Centres Queensland
   07 3392 0092
  Offers legal help across QLD regions, including domestic violence matters.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (ATSILS)
  1800 012 255
  Legal representation and culturally appropriate support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• LGBTI Legal Service
  07 3124 7160
  Legal support and information for members of the LGBTIQ+ community facing DFV.

Accommodation & Shelter

• St Vincent de Paul Queensland
  Operates several crisis accommodation centres for women and children escaping DFV.
• Save the Children – Domestic Violence Accommodation
  Emergency shelter with holistic support services for women and children, including pet-friendly options.
• Macleod Refuge for Women (Gold Coast)
  High-security refuge with self-contained units and outreach services.
• Ruth’s Women’s Shelter (Cairns)
  Secure crisis accommodation and support for women and children.
• Najidah (Sunshine Coast)
  Provides short- and long-term housing for individuals and families affected by DFV.

Counselling & Support Programs

• Relationships Australia Queensland
  Counselling and support services for individuals and families affected by DFV.
• Anglicare Southern Queensland
  Family violence counselling and recovery programs.
• UnitingCare Queensland
  Offers crisis support, counselling, and practical assistance to DFV survivors.
• Brisbane Domestic Violence Service (BDVS)
  Free, confidential support across Brisbane for people affected by DFV.
• Domestic Violence Action Centre (DVAC)
  Services in Ipswich, Toowoomba, and surrounds, including case management and counselling.
• Centre Against Domestic Abuse (CADA)
  DFV support and court advocacy in Caboolture, Pine Rivers, and Redcliffe regions.

Specialised Community Services

• Immigrant Women’s Support Service (IWSS)
  Culturally sensitive services for immigrant and refugee women from non-English-speaking backgrounds.
• Kurbingui Youth and Family Development
  Culturally responsive DFV support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals in North Brisbane and Moreton Bay.
• Beyond DV
  Programs to assist women and children in rebuilding their lives after DFV.
• Protea Place (Toowoomba)
  Drop-in support hub providing housing help, health access, and case management for women in need.

Financial Assistance

• Victim Assist Queensland
  Financial aid for victims of violent crime, including help with relocation, counselling, and medical costs.
• Leaving Violence Program (via UnitingCare)
  A $5,000 one-off assistance package for women leaving violence, including cash and prepaid support cards.