One of the more topical aspects within our contemporary environments is the rapid emergence of AI, artificial intelligence.
Predicted to change, if not revolutionise, how we do things, including what traditional societal employment structures look like.
Whether you are an enthusiastic fan, cautious supporter, part time user, sceptic or deeply distrustful disbeliever, AI is unlikely to go away. As AI technologies become more integrated into daily life, they offer both opportunities and challenges.
The mission of the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council which we have the privilege of co-chairing is to prevent domestic violence in all its forms, to the greatest extent possible.
Whether AI can contribute to that remains to be seen.
What we do know is that AI can certainly be used for malicious intent, in the perpetration of domestic violence.
Unfortunately there continues to be a rise in image-based abuses, often created through ‘deepfake’ artificial intelligence editing software tools, being shared as a form of coercive control.
But the misuse of AI doesn’t stop there.
Smart home devices, marketed as tools to simplify and secure our lives, are being turned into instruments of control.
Abusers can use security cameras to monitor their victims’ every move, voice assistants to eavesdrop on conversations, or even manipulate the home environment—locking doors, controlling lights, or adjusting temperatures—to intimidate and isolate their targets.
What was once a symbol of modern convenience has, for some, become a source of fear and oppression.
There are a wide range of entities that have an extremely important role in contributing to the prevention of domestic violence.
They include governments at all levels, federal, state and local.
Specific government departments tasked with related responsibilities.
Organisations statewide that support victims.
The courts, media, service clubs, sporting clubs and businesses. It’s a whole of community issue that exists in every community.
We think that the most important contribution to preventing domestic violence will be when enough people in their own communities effectively say, ‘this is unacceptable’ and resolve to do something towards its prevention.
That’s where you and your own AI come in, but it’s not your use of artificial intelligence – it’s your personal inbuilt AI which is your Ability to Influence others. Please don’t underestimate both your ability to do that and the importance of it.
Whether it’s influencing within your family group, friends, organisational associates or workplace colleagues.
Ultimately, we want to change the attitudes, values and beliefs that underpin the behaviour of the perpetrators of domestic violence and again the most effective way to achieve that is through shared community values.
Our ask of you is to commit to that change and where and when safe and appropriate, say and do something.
Some of the things you can do include knowing more about it, the terrible extent and harm, issues like coercive control and the impact on children exposed to it.
One place to start could be the Prevention Council’s monthly newsletter.
Other things you could do include taking part in events, supporting a domestic violence organisation, encouraging awareness within your circle of activity or perhaps supporting a victim you know and are concerned about.
It’s only theoretical but if you could influence one person and as each day followed, they influence another person so that the numbers committed to this cause double every day, after 28 days we would have engaged the entire population of Australia.
That whilst mathematically correct is of course unrealistic as the societal change necessary to prevent domestic violence will take years not days and requires long term commitment.
Please be part of that change in engaging and using your own ability to influence it.
We think though that it will be one of the most important things you will ever do as it will help lead us to much fairer, healthier, more respectful, and safer communities.
