Brittany Higgins has strongly condemned comments made by One Nation leader Pauline Hanson regarding domestic violence, characterizing them as "victim-blaming rhetoric." Hanson, in a radio interview, suggested that domestic violence can be a "two-way street" and that "women can lose their cool as well," citing societal pressures like the cost of living.
Hanson stated, "If these women are getting abused by men out there, then don't put up with it." She also shared a personal experience, saying, "I've been through it myself in my life. And I just feel if you're not in a house where you feel safe... then you shouldn't put up with it."
Higgins responded on social media, calling the normalization of such comments "atrocious," particularly in light of the 38 Australian women lost to femicide this year. Higgins is married to GetUp campaign lead David Sharaz, who previously organized a banner mocking Hanson.
These remarks come as Anglicare released research indicating a significant increase in the cost of leaving a violent relationship, up 71% since 2016 to $7,017. Claire Dunlop, Anglicare General Manager of Relationships and Wellbeing, noted that financial barriers are becoming an obstacle for victim-survivors, making them feel "trapped between violence and financial insecurity."
Earlier on the same day, One Nation faced another controversy when a video surfaced of Senator Malcolm Roberts questioning the severity of COVID-19 deaths, which he claimed were "staged" and "bullshit."
One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce stated he did not agree with Roberts' views but did not wish to condemn him. A recent Roy Morgan poll showed a dip in the One Nation party's primary vote.
For support, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline (13 11 14), or the Men's Referral Service (1300 766 491).