Family and domestic violence
Family violence in Australia — 1800RESPECT
Family and domestic violence is one of the most common — and least talked about — harms in Australia. Help is free, confidential, and available in every state. You do not have to be in crisis to call.
1800RESPECT — the first call
1800RESPECT
Call 1800 737 732 · 24 hours, every day
1800RESPECT is for anyone impacted by family, domestic or sexual violence — including partners, former partners, parents, children, extended family and friends. They have phone, web chat and text options. Interpreters available.
You do not have to leave today
You do not have to make any big decisions to call a helpline. Many people call for years before they're ready to leave, or to do anything at all. A helpline counsellor will meet you exactly where you are, without pushing.
Most people leave 5–7 times before leaving for good. Every call, every plan, every step matters — even the ones that don't end the way you hoped.
Leaving is often the most dangerous time
Safe accommodation
If you need somewhere safe to go, 1800RESPECT can help arrange emergency accommodation. Every state has women's refuges and family violence crisis accommodation. For men, the Men's Referral Service (1300 766 491) can help.
Children can come with you. So can pets, in many refuges.
Police and intervention orders
You can apply for an intervention order (also called a DVO, AVO, or restraining order depending on your state) through the police or directly at your local Magistrates Court. These are free. You do not need a lawyer, though free legal help is available through community legal centres and Legal Aid.
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
See all 7 guides in Safety & wellbeing →
From bluetulipco.com/library/safety/dv — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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