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Turning hidden harm into visible change

Giving visibility, voice, and action to hidden forms of child abuse.

Hidden Scars advocates for greater recognition of emotional, psychological, and relational harm that too often goes unseen or misunderstood.

We work to shift understanding so these forms of abuse are identified earlier, taken seriously, and responded to with appropriate action and support.

Through awareness and education, we challenge normalised patterns of harm within families, systems, and communities, helping ensure children are better protected and better heard.

Our advocacy is focused on turning silence into recognition—and recognition into meaningful change for children and families affected by hidden harm.

  • We advocate for early recognition of emotional, psychological, and relational harm while challenging normalised patterns to improve protection, awareness, and support for children and families.
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2023 Australian Child Maltreatment Study (ACMS).

Mental abuse is strongly linked to major depressive and
anxiety disorders, substance dependence,
self-harm, and suicide attempts.

In Australia in 2023‑24, 57% of children with substantiated maltreatment had mental abuse
recorded as the primary type of abuse. (AIHW)

REPORT YOUR CONCERNS

If you suspect a child is at risk, report it to your state authorities.