The Rise of Teen Violence In Australia 2024

In recent years, Australia has seen a concerning rise in teen violence. This unsettling trend has been evident across the country, with notable incidents occurring on the Gold Coast and in other major cities. 

The alarming nature of these events has brought the issue of youth violence to the forefront, emphasising the need for parents to be vigilant about their children's safety, especially when it comes to their daughters. As society grapples with this growing problem, it becomes increasingly crucial for parents to equip their children with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate potentially dangerous situations.

Current Landscape of Teen Violence

Recent incidents have highlighted a disturbing trend of girl-on-girl violence, particularly in public spaces such as train stations, bus stops, and even at social gatherings. One case involved a group of girls aged 12 to 14 accused of assaulting, taunting and cutting a 13-year-old girl with a knife at a sleepover, where the victim believed the girls were her friends. Similar incidents have been reported in other cities, showcasing a worrying pattern of aggression among young women.

Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reveal an increase in reported violent incidents among teens, with a significant portion involving female perpetrators. According to recent data, there has been a notable rise in physical altercations, threats, and even weapon use among teenage girls. This trend is not isolated to specific areas but is part of a broader pattern of escalating violence among youth across the country.

The rise in teen violence, particularly in public spaces, underscores the importance of addressing this issue at both the community and individual levels. With the increasing prevalence of these incidents, it is imperative for parents and guardians to take proactive steps in educating their children about the realities of violence and the importance of safety as they are often the victims of these senseless incidents.

The Importance of Pre-Emptive Learning

Proactively preparing for potential violence is a critical aspect of personal safety. Parents should consider investing in self-defence classes for their daughters, where they can learn techniques to protect themselves in various scenarios. 

For example, our classes cover both the theory and practical strategies around physical defence tactics, situational awareness, and de-escalation. Conflict resolution training can also be valuable, teaching teens how to navigate confrontational situations assertively - reducing the likelihood of escalation.

The unpredictability of violence means that preparation is essential. While no one can predict when or where they might encounter a dangerous situation, being equipped with the skills and knowledge to handle such events can make all the difference. It's about building confidence and ensuring that, if the worst does happen, teens are not left helpless or unsure of how to respond.

Essential Tips for Staying Safe

Give Them Your Belongings and Run When You Can

In situations where an encounter turns threatening, the priority should always be personal safety. Possessions, no matter their value, can always be replaced (in QLD, the government allows you to claim a range of recovery expenses if you have been a victim of violence), but a life cannot. Encourage teens to run away from danger and seek help whenever possible and to not worry about their reputation or  embarrassment. 

The primary goal is to remove themselves from the situation unharmed. This might mean surrendering belongings to an aggressor or fleeing from an area quickly.

Be an Active Bystander

When witnessing an act of violence or aggression, being an active bystander can make a significant difference. This doesn't necessarily mean intervening physically, which can be dangerous, but rather taking steps to help in other ways. 

This can include calling for help, alerting authorities, or creating a distraction. It's important to assess the situation and act in a manner that prioritises one's safety while still providing assistance. Being a supportive presence can also involve comforting the victim afterwards or providing crucial witness information to the police.

Prioritise Your Daughter’s Safety

The rise of teen violence in Australia, especially among young women, is a troubling trend that demands urgent attention. Notable incidents on the Gold Coast have brought this issue into sharp focus, highlighting the growing prevalence of teen violence in public and social settings. 

For parents, the safety of their children, particularly daughters, should be a top priority. This means not only being aware of the risks but also equipping their children with the skills to handle potentially dangerous situations. 

At Fierce Females, our mission is to empower women and girls by providing the knowledge and tools needed to discover a sense of self-agency and live a life free from violence. If you’re Gold Coast-based, consider exploring our current self-defence classes for both yourselves and your daughters, or alternatively learn some basics of self-defence via our online course.