Non-fatal strangulation linked to high domestic homicide risk

A recent forum in Hobart highlighted the critical link between non-fatal strangulation and domestic homicide. According to a death review report by the Red Rose Foundation, one in five domestic homicides involved a history of non-fatal strangulation. This data aligns with a 2008 study indicating that victims of strangulation are 7.5 times more likely to be killed by their partner.

Experts warned that non-fatal strangulation can cause severe internal injuries, including stroke, PTSD, memory loss, and speech difficulties, even without visible external marks. University of Tasmania lecturer Christine Padgett noted that between 18% and 37% of victims may sustain brain injuries. Such injuries can further impact survivors by potentially damaging their perceived credibility when interacting with legal and health systems.

Following Victoria becoming the last Australian state to introduce a dedicated criminal offence for non-fatal strangulation in 2024, specific offences for the act now exist across all Australian jurisdictions.