I am concerned about someone else's harmful behaviour

Please read the below content if you are concerned about someone's harmful behaviour.

Do not confront the person or try to “sort it out” yourself. That can increase risk for you and for the person experiencing harm. It can also make the person using violence more defensive or more careful about hiding what they are doing. It also gives them an opportunity to try to convince you that what they are doing is not wrong, or to blame the other person.

If the person brings it up with you, keep the conversation calm and brief. You can name the behaviour without arguing, for example you can say:

“I’m concerned about what you’ve described. Using violence or control is not okay.”

Try not to debate the details, shame them, or pass on anything the other person has told you.

Focus on:

• safety (your own and any other people involved)
• accountability (never make excuses for violence)
• getting the right support

If you are worried, speak with your club safeguarding contact or a specialist support service for advice. If the person wants help to change their behaviour, they can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 for free, confidential support and referral.

• Should I investigate what happened?

No, you do not need to find out more information or gather evidence. If you are unsure about what to do, speak to:

• Member Protection or Safeguarding Officer
• Club Welfare Officer
• Club leadership
• Club or league safeguarding contacts
• A national support service such as Full Stop Australia. Find out more about support services here