Landmarks across Australia have shined red on 12 October 2023 to convey the power of love for children subjected to emotional abuse

Saturday 12 October is Parental Alienation Day in Australia. Locations nationwide will be illuminated red to symbolise love and raise awareness of parental alienation – a form of coercive control and family violence.

Landmarks Supporting the Cause

Melbourne: Melbourne Town Hall and Bolte Bridge

Canberra: Old Parliament House, National Museum of Australia, Royal Mint, National Carillon, Malcolm Fraser Bridge, Canberra Times Fountain and light rail stations

Brisbane: Story Bridge (plus banners on the Sunnybank and Caxton overpasses)

Geelong: Catenary lights (Malop and Moorabool Streets) and Little Malop Central

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the organisations and individuals who have joined us in this vital endeavour to support affected families.

Definition of Parental Alienation

Parental alienation is a form of coercive control and child abuse that causes serious psychological harm[1]. It occurs when one parent deliberately disrupts, prevents or erases the relationship between a child and their other parent (often extending to other family members). Whilst recognised by law in other parts of the world such as Italy, Brazil and Mexico, it is not legally recognised under Australian family law.

It is achieved by undermining the relationship with the other parent via manipulation, spreading inaccurate information, false allegations of abuse or creating a negative image of the parent for no justifiable reason but to appease the manipulating parent. Children are coerced to choose a side and often grow to dislike, criticise and avoid spending time with the other parent. In severe cases, they may reject the relationship entirely.

Impacts on Children

Children who are subjected to these abusive behaviours can experience complex post-traumatic stress reactions, substance use problems, self-harming behaviours, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and even suicidality. Generational trauma looms large as these patterns may continue in their future family lives.

Taking a Stand

“Children, parents, siblings, step-parents and extended family members are suffering from this insidious form of abuse – often let down by court systems, therapists and professionals who lack sufficient education and trauma-informed approaches,” says Elle Wills of the Parental Alienation Advocacy Group.

“They experience ‘disenfranchised’ grief where there is no closure yet a stigma associated with the experience. The despair and helplessness for a child who is still alive but not accessible is immeasurable”. To commemorate Parental Alienation Day, families have compiled some of their favourite memories. Check it out here.

“Every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment free from psychological harm. It's time to raise awareness and put an end to this cycle of abuse.”

#PADay #parentalalienation

[1] Reference (book): Haines, J., Matthewson, M., & Turnbull, M. (2020). Understanding and Managing Parental Alienation: A Guide to Assessment and Intervention. Routledge.