Shattered dreams: marital violence against overseas-born women in Australia

In the study which resulted in Shattered Dreams, 800 victims were surveyed, together with legal aid practitioners, ethnic welfare agency staff and refuge workers. The results are compiled along with data from domestic violence calls to the police and the oral histories of 21 survivors of violence in the home. Dr Easteal's study reveals that a large proportion of women in refuges are immigrants. Women sponsored as immigrants by prospective husbands experience particular difficulties. Lack of knowledge about rights and services also contributes to victims remaining in violent situations.