What can I do about violence?

Home: Survivors: Violence in our Community: Violence against women

Violence is a crime.

Deciding what to do is very important and difficult. It may help to speak to someone who can help you think about all the things you must consider. There are trained people who can explain your options to you, and places that you can go where you will be safe. You can ask the agency you contact to treat your report as confidential. It may help you to have a friend with you when you decide to contact these services.

• If you do not speak English there are services where your language may be spoken, and interpreters available free of charge.
• If you need immediate assistance, call the police on 000.
• If you are considering making a report to the police, you may wish to contact one of the support services listed at the contacts section.
• They can provide support, information, and assistance in lodging your report. If you are unhappy with the action taken by the police they can also help you to lodge a formal complaint.
• It may be helpful to talk to a friend, neighbour or relative in order to gain support.
• If you are afraid of violence from a family member such as your husband, it may help to have an 'escape plan' prepared. This could involve having all your documents and important belongings kept together in an easily accessible place, or arranging in advance a place you could go if you decide to leave.
• If you would like police support or information, call the Community Policing Squad. The Squads are units of specially trained officers who deal mainly with adult and child sexual assault and family violence.
• If your husband or partner is violent he may want to attend a men's behaviour change group. Some women have found that attendance at groups has reduced some forms of violence.

However, attending a group is by no means a guarantee that his behaviour will change. He can contact a men's behaviour change group through the Men's Referral Service.

Sponsor

Council Against Violence

Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 13 Oct 2009