While research findings in this volume take an Australian perspective, they extend beyond national boundaries and are pertinent to readers in all societies. Contributors explore violence against women with disabilities, homeless women and lesbians in addition to culture-specific topics, such as injustices suffered by Australian Aboriginal women. The editors introduce the book with an overview of violence in Australian history, examining how culturally embedded laws and customs have aided the oppression of women. They stress that those involved in strategies for prevention should bear in mind political and social policies that may impede progress.