At Regional Migration Australia, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their visa status. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please know that support is available.
What is family violence?
Family violence, also known as domestic violence, is any conduct that makes you fear for your or your family’s safety and wellbeing. It may be directed at you, your family, pets or property. You and your family do not have to remain in a relationship where you fear for your or your family’s safety to stay in Australia.
This abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, social, financial or involve threats and intimidation. You do not need to be physically hurt for the behaviour to be serious. If someone’s behaviour makes you feel scared, controlled or unsafe, that is family violence.
Types of family violence
- Physical abuse: Hitting, choking, hurting pets, stopping you from sleeping or taking medicine.
- Verbal abuse: Threats, yelling, name-calling, or undermining you in front of others.
- Sexual abuse: Forcing unwanted sexual activity or controlling what you wear.
- Emotional abuse: Ignoring you, extreme jealousy, or isolating you from friends and family.
- Social abuse: Embarrassing you in public or stopping you from seeing a doctor or using transport.
- Financial abuse: Taking your money, controlling your spending, or forcing you into debt.
- Spiritual abuse: Preventing you from practising your religion or beliefs.
- Stalking: Unwanted calls, following you, or watching where you go.
- Coercive control: Ongoing behaviour to control your choices, like isolating you, tracking your movements, or making threats.
Immediate Assistance
Emergency Services: If you are in immediate danger, call 000 for Australian police assistance.
24/7 Counselling and Support: Contact 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 for confidential counselling, information, and support services.
Understanding Protection orders
Protection orders are legal instruments designed to protect individuals from domestic and family violence. These orders are recognised across Australia, though they may have different names depending on the state or territory:
- Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO)
- Domestic Violence Order (DVO)
- Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO)
- Family Violence Order (FVO)
- Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO)
- Intervention Order (IO)
To apply for a protection order, reach out to your local police station or court.
National Support Services
Various organisations offer assistance to those affected by domestic and family violence, including:
Lifeline: 13 11 14 – 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 – Support for young people aged 5 to 25.
Family Relationship Advice Line: 1800 050 321 – Guidance on family relationship issues.
Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491 – Support for men who use violence.
MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978 – Support for men experiencing family violence.
Legal Assistance
Legal services can provide advice and representation in matters related to family law, immigration, and protection orders. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for legal aid.
Family Violence Law Help: familyviolencelaw.gov.au
My Blue Sky: 02 9514 8115 – Assistance for individuals facing forced marriage and other forms of modern slavery.
Financial Support
Financial assistance is available for those experiencing hardship due to domestic and family violence:
Australian Red Cross: Offers support to individuals on temporary visas or with uncertain visa status.
Uniting Care: Provides the Escaping Violence Payment program for eligible individuals. Contact them at 1800 387 387.
Language Support
If English is not your first language, free interpreting services are available:
Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National): Call 131 450.
Additionally, the MyAus App offers information in multiple languages about Australian laws and services related to domestic and family violence, sexual assault, and forced marriage. The app is available for free download on the App Store and Google Play.
If you need further assistance or guidance, feel free to contact us at Regional Migration Australia. We are here to support you.
