One in three women experience physical or sexual violence in their adult life. The majority of this abuse is perpetrated by someone they know (ABS, 2006). While the only person who can stop the abuse is the person abusing, odds are someone you know is currently living with abuse.

Anyone can get involved by speaking up against abuse or lending a hand to someone living with abuse. Violence and abuse is not okay and is against the law in Australia. Speaking out and talking openly about domestic and family violence helps remove the shame surrounding it and allows people to speak openly about abuse.

If you know someone who has or is experiencing family and domestic violence it is important that you:

• Let them know you are genuinely worried about what is happening;
• Listen to and believe them, even if it is difficult;
• Encourage them to seek help from a counsellor or service provider (refer to Get Help);
• Let them know the abuse is not their fault and that no one ever asks or chooses to be abused;
• Let them know that they are not alone; and
• Help in any other way you can, e.g. looking after the kids, arranging appointments, helping with transport.

If you are assisting someone who is experiencing violence and need some support or information you can contact the Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline. This is a 24 hour service that provides support and counselling for women experiencing family and domestic violence.

This includes phone counselling, information and advice, referral to local advocacy and support services, liaison with police if necessary and support in escaping situations of family and domestic violence. The service can refer women to safe accommodation if required.

Contact the Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline on 1800 007 339 (FreeCall).

For further information please Click Here

Crisis Care
1800 199 008 (FreeCall)

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