Domestic violence support

Domestic violence, or family violence, is violent, abusive or intimidating behaviour in a relationship. It can include emotional, sexual, social, financial, spiritual and physical abuse. If you’ve been affected by domestic violence, it’s important to know that it’s not your fault and it’s never acceptable. You have the right to feel safe, respected and supported in your relationships.

To learn more about the signs of an abusive relationship, and about what you can do if you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, check out Domestic violence and what you can do about it.

If you’ve been affected by domestic violence, there are a number of organisations that can offer help and support, regardless of where you live in Australia.

This can help if:

  • you’re dealing with domestic violence

  • you have questions about domestic violence

  • you want to know what domestic violence support services are available.

Girl using her mobile phone

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000 immediately.

Translating and interpreting services

Translating and Interpreting Service

Call 13 14 50 and ask them to contact 1800RESPECT.

National Relay Service

For callers who are d/Deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment.

TTY/Voice Calls: call 133 677 and ask them to contact 1800RESPECT or 1800 737 732.

Speak and Listen: call 1300 555 727 and ask them to contact 1800RESPECT.

Internet relay users

Visit the National Relay Service website and ask them to contact 1800RESPECT or 1800 737 732.

National support services

The National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line

A free and confidential telephone and online service for any Australian experiencing, or who has experienced, domestic or family violence and/or sexual assault.

Phone: 1800RESPECT, or 1800 737 732, available 24/7.

State- and territory-based support services

ACT

Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS)

DVCS offers a range of services, including crisis intervention, legal support and advocacy, and support groups.

Phone: (02) 6280 0900, available 24/7.

NSW

Domestic Violence Line

Their trained female counsellors can help you contact police, get medical care, obtain an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO), develop a safety plan or find emergency accommodation.

Phone: 1800 656 463, available 24/7.

West Connect Domestic Violence Services

Offers support, services and accommodation options in the Western Sydney area, to women and children experiencing or escaping family and domestic violence. They also provide specialised support for refuges, Aboriginal women, single women, older women and lesbian and transgender women.

Phone: (02) 4732 2318

Sydney Homeless Connect

NSW-wide support service, for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Phone: 1800 152 152, available 24/7.

QLD

DV Connect

DV Connect provides free telephone crisis counselling, interpreter services for those who speak English as a second language, safety planning, and referrals to crisis accommodation.

Phone: 1800 811 811, available 24/7.

VIC

Safe Steps Family Violence Response Center

Safe Steps provides telephone-based support, court support services, trauma counselling, and many more services to women and children who have been victims of domestic violence.

Phone: 1800 015 188, available 24/7, or (03) 9322 3555.

WA

Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline

The helpline provides support and counselling for women experiencing family and domestic violence. This includes phone counselling, referrals to local support services, and support in escaping situations of family and domestic violence.

Phone: 1800 007 339, available 24/7, or (08) 9223 1188

SA

Women’s Safety Services

They provide a range of services, including a crisis phone line and services that cater to Indigenous and migrant women and children escaping violent situations. Visit their website for information on services in your area.

Phone: 1300 782 200.

TAS

Family Violence Response Referral line

Part of Safe at Home, the Tasmanian government’s response to family violence, the referral line provides access to emergency services, court and legal services, counselling services, the offender program, and more.

Phone: 1800 633 937, available 24/7.

NT

Dawn House

Dawn House provides crisis accommodation and counselling services. Shelter staff can provide advocacy services, referrals to other services, support with legal matters, budgeting advice, and more.

Phone: Phone: (08) 8945 1388, 8 am – 4 pm, Monday–Friday. Outside of these hours you should call 000 if you need support.

What can I do now?

  • Call 000 if you’re in immediate danger.

  • Contact 1800RESPECT to find out more information and get support.

  • Trust your instincts. If you feel you’re in an abusive relationship, seek help.

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