Photo credit: Clarity
Family and domestic violence can occur in any household, at any time.
Actions of domestic violence may be spur-of-the-moment decisions triggered by a situation or event, or may be ongoing occurrences that are committed by those who feel they have the right to control or exploit their family.
Either way, domestic violence is inexcusable, and is never the fault of the victim, regardless of what the abuser may say or think.
If you are in a family violence situation and are in
need of urgent assistance, call 000 immediately.
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is a pattern of physical abuse by one partner against another and/or their children. It includes pushing, kicking, punching, restraining, throwing objects and sexual abuse (including incest). domestic violence can also be non-physical, taking the form of domineering behaviour, intimidation, stalking, economic deprivation, confinement or humiliation.
Children and domestic violence
Even if family violence is not directed toward your children, witnessing abuse from one parent toward another can have damaging effects on a child’s psychological well-being. As such, it is important that you escape a situation of family violence as soon as possible if you can find a safe way to do so.
Escaping domestic violence
Before leaving a domestic violence situation, make a personal crisis plan by following these four steps:
- Have somewhere to go. Ask a trusted friend or relative to accommodate you and your children or contact a shelter in your area. To locate a shelter, visit Lifeline’s support finder and search “domestic violence” in your location
- Familiarise yourself with the quickest, safest way to exit your house in an emergency.
- Memorise or keep any important contact numbers with you at all times.
- Collect any important documentation or personal belongings that will be useful for you and your children in the future. It is also a good idea to leave copies of important documents with a friend or relative. These items may include:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificate
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- Vehicle registration papers
- Medicare card
- Insurance Details
- School records
- Cash, cheque books and credit cards
- Tax File Number
- Medical Records
- Keys for your house, car and workplace
- Medications
- Medical scripts
- Mortgage payment records
- Rental agreement
- Items of sentimental value
- Comfort item(s) for your children
What is domestic violence: support services
Although you may feel isolated and helpless in a family violence situation, you are not alone. Help is out there – don’t be afraid to ask.
The police can prosecute the offender and arrange for a Family Violence Order to be taken out against your abuser.
For further information about the legalities of domestic and family violence, visit The Family Law Court‘s website. This site provides thorough information covering child abuse allegations, personal safety and the family law act.
The Australian government offers a Crisis Payment and other assistance to domestic violence victims. You can also contact a government social worker who can confidentially assess your situation and advise relevant support services.
To speak to an experienced counsellor about your situation, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or the National Sexual Assault, Family and Domestic Violence Counselling Service on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). Both Lifeline and RESPECT are free, confidential services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Remember, if you are in need of immediate help, call 000.
