Brittany Higgins accuses Pauline Hanson of victim-blaming for calling domestic violence a ‘two-way street’

Brittany Higgins accuses Pauline Hanson of victim: Domestic Violence Debate Reignites After Hanson's Controversial Remarks Wanderstayfinder.com – One

Domestic Violence Debate Reignites After Hanson’s Controversial Remarks

Wanderstayfinder.com – One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has sparked significant criticism following her characterization of domestic violence as a “two-way street,” despite acknowledging the behavior as “wrong.” Her comments prompted swift condemnation from advocates and politicians who accused her of shifting blame onto victims of abuse.

During a Wednesday interview with radio station 4BC, Hanson addressed the prevalence of domestic violence in Australia. While describing it as a “scourge” affecting the nation, she emphasized that society faces considerable strain. When asked to speak on the issue, she stated that both men and women can “lose their cool” and contribute to conflict.

It is wrong but it’s also a two-way street. I’m not saying that it’s just men, women can lose their cool as well. Society is under so much pressure … Everyone is under so much pressure and it’s really hard.

Hanson drew upon her own experiences, noting that she had personally navigated difficult relationships. She argued that individuals should not remain in environments where they do not feel secure. Her message to women experiencing abuse was clear: if mistreatment occurs, they should not tolerate it.

Domestic violence is a scourge but look … I’ve been through it myself in my life. And I just feel if you’re not in a house where you feel safe … then you shouldn’t put up with it. If these women are getting abused by men out there, then don’t put up with it.

Advocates Push Back Against Victim-Blaming

Tarang Chawla, an activist whose sister Nikita was tragically killed by her partner in 2015 at the age of 23, responded strongly to Hanson’s perspective. He argued that placing the burden on victims is misguided, particularly when the perpetrator is typically male.

My sister Niki tried to do what Ms Hanson suggests. Terrible advice. He murdered her. It is not as simple as ‘don’t put up with it’. The responsibility isn’t on the victim. It’s on the person who is abusive or violent. Overwhelmingly, that person is a man.

Political leaders also weighed in on the controversy. Katy Gallagher, serving as minister for women and finance, characterized Hanson’s statements as poorly informed. She warned that such remarks could inadvertently excuse perpetrators of violence.

We should be backing victim-survivors and making it clear that the responsibility for violence lies with the person who chooses to use it.

Tanya Plibersek, the social services minister, urged Hanson to prioritize supporting survivors rather than diminishing their experiences. Plibersek highlighted that suggesting women simply leave overlooks a critical reality: the period following departure often brings escalated or even lethal violence.

Senator Hanson has a voice and she is using it to send a message to victims that violence is their fault and to those that use violence that it’s excusable … saying women should leave completely misses the point. It’s the most dangerous time, it’s when they are more likely to face escalated or lethal violence.

Broader Criticism and Historical Context

Brittany Higgins, currently executive director of the Vida Fund, joined the chorus of critics. Through a social media post, she condemned the normalization of victim-blaming rhetoric, particularly given that 38 Australian women have died from femicide.

‘Mutual abuse’, ‘two way street’, ‘just leave’ – normalising this victim blaming rhetoric in relation to domestic violence when 38 Australian women have already been lost to femicide is atrocious.

The Women’s and Girls’ Emergency Centre described Hanson’s comments as “vile and shameful.” Chief executive Nicole Yade emphasized that the remarks failed to acknowledge the gendered nature of violence, with men predominantly perpetrating abuse against women and children. Yade noted that despite Hanson’s own experiences with domestic violence, her comments reflected a lack of empathy and understanding.

These remarks echo Hanson’s previous controversial positions. In 2019, she secured an inquiry into the family court system, which women’s organizations cautioned could empower men’s rights activists. At that time, she suggested that some women fabricated family violence complaints to maintain custody of their children—a claim widely discredited by research.

Additionally, in 2017, Hanson told the Senate that her sons had faced unwarranted domestic violence allegations, expressing sympathy for men in similar situations.

For those seeking support, domestic and family violence counselling is accessible through Full Stop Australia at 1800 385 578. In the UK, individuals may call the national domestic abuse helpline at 0808 2000 247 or visit Women’s Aid. Those in the US can reach the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.