Information for men – family violence and abuse in relationships

If you experience violence in your family or relationship in Victoria, services are available to give you support and assistance.

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:

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.

If you would like confidential advice about the options available to you, you can contact the Victims of Crime Helpline.

Open: 8am–11pm, every day
Call: 1800 819 817
Text: 0427 767 891
Email: vsa@justice.vic.gov.au

Victims Assistance Program

The Victims Assistance Program is the primary support service for men affected by family violence in Victoria.

It is a free service, available by contacting the Victims of Crime Helpline.

The Victims Assistance Program:

  • is available to people identifying as male who are experiencing abuse or violence from family members or intimate partners
  • has specially trained support workers who understand that family violence can happen to anyone
  • can provide support and assistance whether or not the matter has been reported to police
  • can discuss your situation with you and connect you to support and assistance that best meets your needs and preferences.

Types of assistance that are available include:

  • help with your day to day needs
  • emergency home security
  • managing your personal safety
  • communicating with police and making a report
  • organising counselling, transport and medical services
  • getting ready for court
  • preparing a Victim Impact Statement
  • applying for financial assistance
  • getting information about the offender.

More services

Lifeline

24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.

Open: 24 hours, every day
Call: 13 11 14
Website: lifeline.org.au

Mensline Australia

Telephone and online counselling service for men with family and relationship concerns.

Open: 24 hours, every day
Call: 1300 789 978
Website: mensline.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

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