Kids 'hidden victims' of family violence

Children exposed to family and domestic violence are more likely to experience mental health issues. (AAP)

Children are the hidden victims of family violence, which places them at significant risk of mental health problems, an Australian study has found.

The report by Australia's National Research Organisation for Women's Safety has found children exposed to domestic and family violence (DFV) are five times more likely to need mental health assistance by the age of 18 than their peers.