Family violence support

WHAT IS FAMILY OR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

Family or domestic violence is any behaviour by one family member that causes physical, sexual and/or emotional harm to others in the family, or causes them to live in fear.

Most violence in the home is committed by men. Women and children are most often the victims. Violence can also occur in other types of relationships. For example, older people can be abused by their adult children. Mothers can abuse children. Violence can occur in same-sex relationships. Women with disabilities can be abused by their carers.

Family violence includes much more than physical violence:

Physical violence can include hitting, choking or throwing objects.
Sexual violence includes being forced to have sex or do sexual things against your will.
Emotional violence can include threats to take your children away, damaging property, humiliation, or threatening to hurt you or your children.
Verbal violence includes being called names or being put down.
Social violence can include keeping you isolated from family or friends, or trying to control where you go or who you see.
Financial violence includes not giving you enough money to meet your own or your children's basic needs, for example, money for food or bills.
Stalking includes repeatedly following or contacting you against your will, with the intention of hurting or scaring you.

Children and young people are always affected by family violence, even if the violence is not directed against them. Children are damaged by witnessing or hearing violence, or by living in an environment of fear.

All types of violence can be dangerous and many are against the law. It is important to do something about any violence that you may be experiencing. Never believe that the violence is your fault.

Family violence is a crime. You have the right to go to the police and report the crime.

If you are ever in immediate danger, telephone the police on 000.

FIND OUT MORE about specific services to which Women's Health West can refer women and children affected by family violence.

FIND OUT MORE about other services available in the Western Region and beyond through our Community Directory.