Reflecting the patriarchal nature of the 20th century, dominant literature of Australian’s social work history is “male-centred” (McMahon 2003, p.2). Lawrence (1965) and Dickey’s (1980) histories are characterised by a denunciation of women social workers. In particular, Dickey did not address the early philanthropy and women-focused work of female activists which inspired the introduction of professional social work in the 1900s. In McMahon’s article, he recognises the role, particularly Catholic, women played in the colonial years. Especially in their work with women. These women, including Catherine Chisolm, focused on providing refuge and employment support to disadvantaged women. However, Alston (2005, p.21) discusses the traditional nature
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Firstly, some see domestic violence as an individual issue, and others consider it a structural issue (Powell 2014). Secondly, some suggest our perception of this violence may be culturally insensitive (Connolly & Harms 2009). Thirdly, questions are raised on whether the focus should be on the victim or the perpetrator (Justo et al. 2009). Additionally, some blame the victim for staying, and others consider the challenges (Connolly & Harms 2009). Perhaps most significant, when children are involved, is the debate over whether children’s rights to safety are more important than parental rights to custody (Connolly & Harms …show more content…
Firstly, female-victim services are commonly underfunded, with a lack of skilled professionals involved (AASW 2012). Secondly, service-delivery is affected by societal gender biases (AASW 2015). Thirdly, there is a lack of support for Indigenous peoples and other minorities (ASSW 2012) and fourthly, many women continue to be hesitant to seek help for fear of losing their children and being misunderstood (Justo et al. 2009). However, Australia proves to be continuing to keep domestic violence, and women, on the agenda. For instance, recent commitments have been made towards primary prevention programs (Powell 2014). Further, social work is focused on providing more professional responses, in more settings (AASW 2015) and lastly, the government’s 2017-18 budget promises increased funding to victims’ services (Cash 2017). However, this is not the only gender issue needing to be
Firstly, some see domestic violence as an individual issue, and others consider it a structural issue (Powell 2014). Secondly, some suggest our perception of this violence may be culturally insensitive (Connolly & Harms 2009). Thirdly, questions are raised on whether the focus should be on the victim or the perpetrator (Justo et al. 2009). Additionally, some blame the victim for staying, and others consider the challenges (Connolly & Harms 2009). Perhaps most significant, when children are involved, is the debate over whether children’s rights to safety are more important than parental rights to custody (Connolly & Harms …show more content…
Firstly, female-victim services are commonly underfunded, with a lack of skilled professionals involved (AASW 2012). Secondly, service-delivery is affected by societal gender biases (AASW 2015). Thirdly, there is a lack of support for Indigenous peoples and other minorities (ASSW 2012) and fourthly, many women continue to be hesitant to seek help for fear of losing their children and being misunderstood (Justo et al. 2009). However, Australia proves to be continuing to keep domestic violence, and women, on the agenda. For instance, recent commitments have been made towards primary prevention programs (Powell 2014). Further, social work is focused on providing more professional responses, in more settings (AASW 2015) and lastly, the government’s 2017-18 budget promises increased funding to victims’ services (Cash 2017). However, this is not the only gender issue needing to be