Family violence help

Family violence can take many forms. It can include abuse that is emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, financial, verbal or social. You or your children don't need to be physically hurt to have experienced domestic or family violence.

Family violence is violent, threatening or other behaviour by a person that coerces or controls a member of the person’s family or causes the family member to be fearful. It often involves a pattern of behaviour that causes fear. This might include where a person has controlled all of the finances or spending.

The economic or financial effect of family violence is considered relevant when making decisions about children, money and property after separation. Its impact could be relevant when assessing contributions made by either of you to the property pool and to the welfare of the family, and when assessing your current and future circumstances.

The family law courts are not permitted to: • Sentence someone for engaging in family violence conduct. Prosecutions for family violence offences are made in state and territory criminal courts • Order compensation for hard caused by family violence. Compensation may be available under a Victims of Crime Compensation Scheme, or under an order from a state or territory civil court • make a family violence order to protect someone from family violence, or change existing orders made by state or territory courts to protect someone from family violence. Orders for protection again family violence are made or amended by state or territory courts.

If you are unsure whether you or your children are experiencing family violence, you can get help and support by calling 1800 737 732 or visiting the 1800 Respect Website. This is a trusted service which provides detailed information to help you identify family violence and lists supports that are available. The service is confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Spousal Maintenance The Family Law Amended Act 2024 (Cth) inserts family violence into the list of factors that the court can consider when assessing what order may be proper for spousal maintenance. Where relevant, the court will consider the economic effect of family violence to which one person has subjected or exposed the other person.

Everyone has a right to feel safe and to live free from violence. If you think you are experiencing family violence, you can get help and support.

Migration and Family Violence

You should get urgent legal advice if you are on a visa or seeking a visa which is dependent on your relationship with your partner, and you are separated or separating.

This is a complex area of law and timing is important. Do not delay in getting legal help as soon as possible.

Contact the free Legal Help Line in your state or territory.

Pets and Family Violence

There are a number of services that may be able to assist with crisis care for pets in situations where someone is experiencing family violence and is worried about the welfare of their pet if they leave the relationship.