Family violence is a pattern of behaviour where one person tries to control or scare another person. It is a form of abuse that can happen in many different types of relationships.
On this website you can learn more about:
- recognising violence and abuse in families and relationships
- reporting family violence to the police
- understanding the justice system in Victoria
- steps you can take to improve your safety.
Do you need help?
If anyone is in immediate danger or a crime is currently occurring, please call police on Triple Zero (000). If you cannot access a phone, you can also go to your local police station.
There are good reasons to report violence and abuse, but if you are not ready to do that yet, or do not want to involve the police, you can still get help. Talking to a trusted person, like a counsellor, family member, doctor or friend can be a good first step and they can help you talk to the police or other services if you want them to.
Free support across Victoria
The Victims of Crime Helpline 1800 819 817 is available 8 am to 7 pm Monday to Friday and 8 am to 5 pm on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays to provide advice and referrals to anyone from any background who is experiencing violence or abuse in their family or relationships.
In Victoria there are a range of services that can provide assistance and support. We can discuss your situation with you and connect you to support and assistance that best meets your needs and preferences.
More services
You can find out more about general family violence services available in Victoria.
You can also contact the specialist services available for women below.
Safe Steps
Victoria's family and domestic violence crisis support service for anyone experiencing violence or abuse.
Open: 24 hours, every day
Call: 1800 015 188
Website: safesteps.org.au
1800RESPECT
The national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service offering a phone and online chat service.
Open: 24 hours, every day
Call: 1800 737 732
Website: 1800respect.org.au
Women’s Legal Service Victoria
Free and confidential legal information and advice for women experiencing family violence or relationship breakdown.
Legal Advice Line
Open: 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, Tuesday and Thursday evenings
Call: (03) 8622 0600 (metropolitan callers) or 1800 133 302 (country callers)
Website: womenslegal.org.au
Women’s Information and Referral Exchange (WIRE)
Free support, referral and information for all Victorian women, non-binary and gender-diverse people on any issue.
Open: 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday
Call: 1300 134 130
Website: wire.org.au
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