Domestic violence support services in Australia
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 ever 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 or family violence, there are a number of organisations that can offer help and support, regardless of where you live in Australia.
This can help if:
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you’re dealing with domestic violence
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you have questions about domestic violence
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you want to know what domestic violence support services are available in Australia.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000 immediately.
Accessing domestic violence support with translating and interpreting services
Translating and Interpreting Service
For callers with limited spoken English.
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 on 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 on 1800 737 732.
National domestic violence support services
1800Respect is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling service. They offer free and confidential support from trained counsellors via telephone, text, online chat or video calls.
For 24/7 support call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT online chat .
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.
Domestic violence hotline: (02) 6280 0900, available 24/7.
NSW
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.
Domestic violence hotline: 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 refugees, Aboriginal women, single women, older women and lesbian and transgender women.
Domestic violence hotline: (02) 4732 2318
NSW-wide support service, for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Domestic violence hotline: 1800 152 152, available 24/7.
QLD
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.
Domestic violence hotline: 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.
Domestic violence hotline: 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.
Domestic violence hotline: 1800 007 339, available 24/7, or (08) 9223 1188
SA
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.
Domestic violence hotline: 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.
Domestic violence hotline: 1800 633 937, available 24/7.
NT
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.
Domestic violence hotline: (08) 8945 1388, 8 am – 4 pm, Monday–Friday. Outside of these hours you should call 000 if you need support.
Commonly asked questions about domestic violence support services
1800RESPECT , Lifeline , and Kids Helpline have free info, resources and online chat services available through their websites, while Services Australia has a range of information and resources that can help if you’re experiencing domestic or family violence.
If you’re under 18 years old, you can access Kids Helpline and 1800RESPECT any time of the day or week. Use their online chat or phone services to find further support.
1800RESPECT, KidsHelpline, Lifeline and MensLine Australia are national support services available 24/7 if you’re experiencing domestic violence, while some of the state-based services we’ve listed in this article also have 24/7 support available.
In addition to 1800RESPECT, MensLine Australia has a 24/7 phone and online counselling service for men who are affected by domestic violence.
In addition to the services already mentioned, Say It Out Loud is an LGBTQIA+ dedicated service to relationship health, including support for domestic and family violence survivors. Their site provides resources and services available in each state that are safe for the LGBTQIA+ community. Get more information about domestic violence for LGBTQIA+ people from the creators of Say it Out Loud, ACON.
What can I do now?
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Call 000 if you’re in immediate danger.
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Contact 1800RESPECT to find out more information and get support.
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Trust your instincts. If you feel you’re in an abusive relationship , seek help.
