If you think you might be at risk of domestic violence or are already experiencing it, it’s important to know that you are not alone. There is support available, and people who care are ready to help.

You might be at risk if you notice any of the following signs:

• Physical harm, such as hitting, slapping, or pushing.

• Emotional abuse, including constant criticism, insults, or threats.

• Being isolated from friends, family, and support networks.

• Financial control, where someone limits your access to money or stops you from working.

• Extreme jealousy and controlling behaviour.

• Being pressured or forced into sexual activities you don’t want to do.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, it’s important to reach out for help. You can:

• Talk to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, teacher, or school counsellor.

• Call a support service, such as 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), a free and confidential Australian helpline that is available 24/7.

• Make a safety plan, which includes planning where you can go and who you can call in an emergency.

• Remember that domestic violence is illegal, and help is available through local shelters, legal services, and professionals who can protect and guide you.

You do not have to face this alone. Reaching out is a brave step, and there are people who will listen, support you, and help keep you safe.

If you are experiencing domestic violence or abuse — or if you are someone who has used abusive or controlling behaviour and wants to change — there are support services available for both men and women. No matter who you are or what your situation is, help is out there, and reaching out is an important first step.

National Support Services

• 1800RESPECT — 24/7 confidential counselling and support (phone: 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au)

• Lifeline — Crisis support and suicide prevention (13 11 14)

• Kids Helpline — Free, private counselling for young people aged 5–25 (1800 55 1800)

• Our Watch — National organisation focused on preventing violence against women and children (www.ourwatch.org.au)

• Relationships Australia — Counselling, family support, and dispute resolution services (1300 364 277)

New South Wales (NSW)

• NSW Domestic Violence Line — 24/7 support and crisis counselling (1800 65 64 63)

• Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS) — Help with legal protection and support at court

• Full Stop Australia — Counselling and crisis response for women and children affected by violence

Victoria (VIC)

• Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre — 24/7 support and emergency housing (1800 015 188)

• The Orange Door — Free services for women, children, and families experiencing violence (www.orangedoor.vic.gov.au)

• inTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence — Specialist services for women from migrant and refugee backgrounds

Queensland (QLD)

• DVConnect Womensline — 24/7 crisis support and emergency help (1800 811 811)

• Women's Legal Service Queensland — Free legal advice and support (1800 957 957)

• Bravehearts — Support for children and families affected by child sexual abuse

Western Australia (WA)

• Women's Domestic Violence Helpline — 24/7 support and refuge accommodation (1800 007 339)

• Pat Giles Centre — Counselling, emergency accommodation, and support services

• Lucy Saw Centre — Crisis support and refuge services

South Australia (SA)

• Women's Safety Services SA — Statewide support for women and children experiencing violence (1800 800 098)

• Yarrow Place — Rape and sexual assault services (1800 817 421)

Tasmania (TAS)

• Family Violence Counselling and Support Service — Support for adults, children, and young people (1800 608 122)

• Women's Legal Service Tasmania — Free and confidential legal advice (1800 682 468)

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

• Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) — 24/7 crisis intervention and support (02 6280 0900)

• Canberra Rape Crisis Centre — Counselling and support services (02 6247 2525)

Northern Territory (NT)

• Dawn House — Crisis accommodation and support (08 8945 1388)

• NT Domestic Violence Crisis Line — 24/7 crisis support (1800 737 732)

• Ruby Gaea Darwin Centre Against Sexual Violence — Support and counselling for women affected by sexual violence (08 8945 0155)

Remember, support is available for everyone, and asking for help is a strong and positive step.

There are also services targeted to supporting men:

• Men’s Domestic Violence Education and Intervention Programs — to help men change abusive behaviours.

• Men and Family Counselling and Consultancy — for relationship and family support.

• Men’s Health and Wellbeing Association — supporting men’s mental health.

• Changing for Good Program — email: changingforgood@ontheline.org.au for confidential support.

• Men and Family Centre — for counselling and support.

• DVConnect Men’s Line — a confidential telephone service for men (Australia-wide).

• MensLine Australia — phone and online support for men: www.mensline.org.au.

• Complete Men — offering programs for self-improvement and behaviour change.

• Men’s Drop-In Groups — safe spaces for men to talk and seek help.

• Crisis Accommodation for Men — temporary shelter for men escaping violence.

• Dads in Distress — support for fathers going through separation or crisis.

• Men’s Shed — community-based spaces for men to connect and support each other.

If someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or abuse, it can be hard to know what to do — but your support can make a big difference. The most important thing is to be kind, patient, and non-judgmental.

Here are some ways you can help:

• Listen carefully without interrupting or giving unwanted advice.

• Believe them and let them know that what they are feeling is real and valid.

• Reassure them that they are not alone and that help is available.

• Encourage them to contact trusted services like domestic violence hotlines, shelters, legal services, or counselling support.

• Help them make a safety plan, which could include packing important documents, planning where to go in an emergency, and knowing who to call.

• If they need it, offer help with transport, finding safe accommodation, or connecting with support services.

• Be respectful of their choices and the time it takes for them to make decisions — leaving an abusive relationship can be very complicated and dangerous.

• Continue offering emotional support and checking in regularly, even if they’re not ready to take action yet.

It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to do this alone. There are professionals and organisations who can guide you on how best to support someone safely.

If you need advice on how to help a friend or loved one, you can call 1800RESPECT
(1800 737 732) for confidential guidance.