The Missing Middle in Family Law

ANU Grad Show 2024

This quilt was inspired by an article by Kate Lyons in the Guardian. Lyons draws attention to the significant numbers of victims of domestic violence, who cannot access the family law system.

The Family Law Act is designed to “ensure that the best interests of children are met, including by ensuring their safety” [Sect 60B (a)] but how can this occur if women are financially excluded by earning too much for a LegalAid grant but too little to afford the $100,000s in private representation.

These women escaping family violence face dire circumstances.

As a society, why do we place such little value on supporting women and children fleeing domestic violence?