Domestic and family violence can include physical violence, coercive control, emotional abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, and abuse through technology. Support is available for veterans, families, and anyone affected. 

If you need support, you’re not alone. There are options available to help you feel safe, supported and connected - at your own pace. 

Get help now 

If you are in immediate danger, call 000. 

If you need to talk to someone right away, free and confidential support is available 24/7. 

• 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 
  Confidential support for people experiencing domestic or family violence 
• Defence Member and Family Helpline – 1800 624 608 
  Support for Defence members and families 
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – 1800 011 046 
  Free and confidential mental health and wellbeing support including counselling, care coordination, peer support, group programs and digital health initiatives for veterans and the families of veterans.

Understanding domestic and family violence 

Domestic and family violence is not always physical. It can involve fear, control, intimidation, or being stopped from making your own decisions. 

This may include: 

• Physical harm, threats or intimidation 
• Emotional abuse  
• Coercive or controlling behaviour 
• Financial abuse 
• Sexual abuse 
• Isolation or monitoring, including through technology 

• Other forms of abuse 

  It can happen in different types of relationships and situations. 

Your safety matters 

You deserve to feel safe, respected and supported.  

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to trust your instincts and reach out for help. 

Finding the right support 

Support looks different for everyone. You might choose to: 

• Talk to a GP, counsellor, or support service 
• Contact a specialist domestic and family violence service 
• Reach out to someone you trust 

You do not need to make every decision at once. One small step, such as making a call or talking to someone you trust, can help. 

Planning for safety 

If it feels right for you, simple steps can help support your safety:  

• Speak with a specialist service to create a safety plan 
• Identify someone you trust you can contact 
• Keep access to a safe phone or device, if possible 
• Think about safe places you could go in an emergency 

Support for veterans and families 

Domestic and family violence can affect anyone. 

Veterans and families may face added pressures, including transition from service, health issues, trauma, or isolation. Services that understand military and veteran experiences can provide practical support. 

If you are worried about someone else 

You can support someone by: 

• Listening and believing them 
• Avoiding judgement 
• Asking what would help 
• Supporting them to connect with professional support 

Do not confront the person using violence if this could make things less safe. If someone is in immediate danger, call 000. 

If you are worried about your own behaviour 

Support is available if you are concerned about how you are acting in a relationship or family. 

Getting help early can reduce harm and support safer behaviour and healthier relationships. 

You don’t have to do this alone 

Help is available. Reaching out, even in a small way, can help you feel safer and more supported.