What Is a Behaviour Change Program?

A Behaviour Change Program is a court-approved program designed to help people understand and address the behaviours that have led to family violence. If you have been ordered to complete a Behaviour Change Program in Victoria, it is important to understand what the program involves, why it has been ordered, and what can happen if you do not participate.

Behaviour Change Programs are commonly ordered in conjunction with Family Violence Intervention Orders, sentencing in criminal matters, or as part of a Community Correction Order (CCO). The aim is not simply to punish offending behaviour, but to reduce the risk of future family violence and improve the safety of affected family members.

What is the purpose of a Behaviour Change Program?

The primary purpose of a Behaviour Change Program is to help participants:

• understand what constitutes family violence;

• recognise the impact their behaviour has on partners, children and other family members;

• identify unhealthy attitudes and beliefs;

• develop healthier communication and conflict resolution skills; and

• reduce the likelihood of future family violence.

The focus is on accountability and behavioural change rather than simply attending counselling.

Who may be required to complete a Behaviour Change Program?

A Behaviour Change Program may be ordered if:

• you have been found guilty of family violence-related criminal offences;

• you have received a Community Correction Order with program conditions;

• the court considers participation appropriate when dealing with family violence offending; or

• it forms part of another court order or correctional supervision.

Not every person who receives a Family Violence Intervention Order will be required to complete a Behaviour Change Program. Whether one is ordered depends on the individual circumstances of the case.

What happens during the program?

Although each provider is slightly different, most Behaviour Change Programs involve:

• regular group sessions;

• discussions about respectful relationships;

• education about family violence and coercive control;

• strategies for managing anger and conflict;

• recognising patterns of abusive behaviour;

• accepting responsibility for past conduct; and

• developing practical skills to reduce future risk.

Participants are generally expected to engage honestly with the program and attend every scheduled session.

How long does a Behaviour Change Program take?

The length of a Behaviour Change Program varies depending on the provider and the order made by the court.

Many programs run for several months, with participants attending weekly group sessions. Some programs also include individual assessment sessions before the group component begins.

Your program provider will explain the attendance requirements and expectations at the commencement of the program.

Do I have to admit the allegations?

Not necessarily.

If you have already pleaded guilty or been found guilty, the program will generally expect participants to take responsibility for their behaviour.

However, if criminal charges or Intervention Order proceedings are still before the court, it is important to obtain legal advice before making admissions during any program.

Statements made in certain circumstances may have consequences for ongoing legal proceedings.

What happens if I do not attend?

If completion of a Behaviour Change Program forms part of a court order, failing to attend may have serious consequences.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

• being reported back to the court;

• breaching a Community Correction Order;

• further court proceedings;

• additional penalties; or

• affecting future sentencing outcomes.

If you are unable to attend because of illness or another genuine reason, you should contact both your lawyer and the program provider as soon as possible.

Will completing the program help my case?

In many situations, yes.

Successfully completing a Behaviour Change Program may demonstrate to the court that you:

• have engaged with rehabilitation;

• have taken steps to reduce the risk of reoffending;

• understand the impact of your behaviour; and

• are committed to making positive changes.

While completion does not guarantee a particular sentencing outcome, courts generally regard genuine rehabilitation as an important mitigating factor.

Can I complete a Behaviour Change Program voluntarily?

Yes.

Some people choose to enrol in a Behaviour Change Program before their matter is finalised. In appropriate cases, voluntarily engaging in treatment may demonstrate insight and rehabilitation.

However, whether this is appropriate depends on the allegations, whether you maintain your innocence, and the stage of your court proceedings. You should obtain legal advice before enrolling if your matter is still before the court.

Do I need legal advice?

If you have been directed to complete a Behaviour Change Program or are facing family violence allegations, obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your obligations and protect your legal position.

At Wilkinson Lawyers, we regularly advise clients involved in Family Violence Intervention Order proceedings and related criminal matters throughout Victoria. We can explain whether a Behaviour Change Program is appropriate in your circumstances, how it may affect your case, and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact Jess Wilkinson on 0468 364 121 or jess@wilkinsonlawyers.com.au to discuss your matter and obtain advice about the best way forward.