A newly expanded national court initiative will attempt to identify children at risk of abuse and domestic violence victims earlier.

The program, Lighthouse, was successfully trialled in family courts in Adelaide, Brisbane and Sydney before being expanded in late November.

Monday marks the official launch of the expanded program, with Chief Justice of the Courts Will Alstergren to detail the expanded initiative.

The program will identify risk factors early, before finding the most effective case management plan for individuals with specially trained judges, registrars and staff.

“Family violence in our society is a national disgrace and has often gone under reported,” Chief Justice Alstergren will say.

Data shows risk factors of family violence are present in four out of five parenting cases before courts.

Similarly, risk factors for child abuse are present in almost three in four cases, while mental health or substance abuse harms are displayed in more than half.

Four in five parenting cases in 2021-22 were referred to child welfare agencies.

High profile anti-family violence campaigners will be in attendance, including Rosie Batty, the parents of Hannah Clarke, and the sister of Kelly Wilkinson.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus will also attend.

The expanded program will include $54.9 million in federal funding.

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– AAP