Domestic violence can happen to anyone
Domestic violence can affect anyone in the community, regardless of age, sexual or gender identity, race, culture, ethnicity, disability, religion, economic status or location. It can take on many forms and involves violent, abusive or intimidating behaviour carried out by a partner, carer or family member to control, dominate or instil fear. It doesn't have to be physical abuse: it can be emotional, psychological, financial, sexual or other types of abuse. Sometimes these non physical forms of domestic violence can be harder to recognise.
Follow these links to learn more about what domestic violence is or to see of list of the signs that you may be living in a domestic violence situation
For help or more information
There are many services available to assist victims of domestic violence. These services are confidential and many will offer support in a variety of languages. Counselling services are also available. Interpreter Services are available on 131 450.
The Lower North Shore Domestic Violence website can be found at www.northshoredomesticviolence.org.au and has information about services that can help people experiencing domestic violence and provides a range of informative resources.
Domestic Violence Line
The Domestic Violence Crisis Line is a counselling and referral service for persons escaping violence from a partner or ex partner. It also provides information on ADVO's. 1800 65 64 63 - (TTY 1800 671 442) - 24 hours 7 days
1800 RESPECT - National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling line 1800 737 732 (24hour state-wide free call). Provides information about domestic violence and sexual counselling services and offers information about other organisations that can assist with ongoing help or support
Homeless Persons Information Centre - 1800 234 566 - see Website
Kids Help Line - 1800 55 1 800 - www.kidshelp.com.au
Lifeline - Free call: 13 11 14 - Website: www.lifeline.org.au
NSW Rape Crisis Centre 9819 7357 or 1800 424 017 (24 hours, 7 days) www.nswrapecrisis.com.au
Another Closet - www.anothercloset.com.au – a website focusing on domestic and family violence in LGBTIQ relationships
Best for Kids - www.bestforkids.org.au
Best for Kids contains information and resources for young people and families on a range of legal topics including separating families, going into care, family violence, talking to police and everyday legal issues. The material includes educational videos for children and young people and interactive brochures on the role of the Independent Children's Lawyer.
Other resources
Booklet – Domestic Violence
This booklet aims to assist victims of domestic violence by explaining what domestic violence is, what happens when police are called to an incident and the associated legal processes.
Booklet – Are you experiencing domestic violence?
Help available through Legal Aid NSW
Booklet – Domestic Violence – it can happen to anyone
This booklet explains what domestic violence is and discusses the signs of an abusive relationship, issues about leaving and provides specific information for women across the ages and those from migrant backgrounds. It also discusses men experiencing domestic violence and what to do if you are a male and are concerned about your behaviour in a relationship.
