This Australian research project examines programmes for perpetrators of domestic violence. This follows a National Domestic Forum in 1996, which identified a need to investigate what was known about the extent and diversity of perpetrator programmes in Australia. As part of the research project, a literature review was conducted to explore the issues related to perpetrator programmes in general, but it also had a more specific focus of exploring the issue of programme effectiveness, and how to evaluate effectiveness. New Zealand and other international literature was consulted for this purpose. It was noted that New Zealand, as well as many Australia commentators, in particular programme advocates, tend to take a pragmatic view of the provision of perpetrator programmes. In examining models of intervention, the New Zealand Hamilton Abuse Intervention Pilot Project was explored. Discussion is provided on the key elements of this programme and its impact. The relevance of overseas programmes for Australia is also discussed.

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