There is no excuse for family violence – but help is here for the whole community
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it many challenges – unprecedented disruptions to our normal lifestyle and routines, and significant pressure on our emotions, finances, study, and overall health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, these kinds of situations often mean personal and family relationships can become strained or existing domestic problems are exacerbated. The result can be an increase in family violence in the community.
The unique circumstances of self-isolation have likely made it harder for victims of family violence to stay safe or reach out for help over the past few months. At the moment, home may not always be the safest place to be.
If you, or a friend, family member or colleague, is experiencing family violence, or you’re feeling scared or threatened at home, we want you to know that support is available. Family violence is a crime and there is no excuse. Everyone has the right to be free from violence or the fear of violence.
Victoria Police has launched a campaign to encourage anyone who is experiencing family violence to seek help:
If you’re from a culturally diverse background, language barriers or other factors may make it even harder to report family violence. To help you or someone you know understand what to do if this happens, the Victoria Police video is also available in 12 other languages, with an additional 14 languages coming soon.
Where to get immediate help
If you’re experiencing violence, or you’re worried about someone else’s safety else, call Victoria Police or go to a police station. In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).
If English is not your first language, call Triple Zero (000) and tell them your language. They will connect you to an interpreter.
If you have a hearing impairment or have difficulty being understood verbally, the National Relay Service can help with an emergency call.
There’s lots of other available support
- Deakin’s Safer Community service is the University’s central point of contact for reports of family violence and sexual harm, and we also respond to reports of concerning behaviour. Visit our website to find out more, including information on what will happen if you make a report, how we manage your privacy, and what ongoing referrals, support and monitoring are available. It’s important to know that Safer Community is not an emergency or crisis response service and we only operate during business hours.
- If you need to talk to someone, contact Deakin’s Counselling and Psychological Support (CAPS) service.
- safe steps (1800 015 188) provides family violence support over the phone or via email 24 hours a day. They can also connect you with someone who speaks in your preferred language.
- inTouch (1800 755 988) provides support services to women from multicultural backgrounds, including migrant and refugee women living in Victoria, who are experiencing or have experienced family violence.
- Men’s Referral Service (1300 766 491) provides help and support for people concerned about their own behaviour.
- 1800 Respect (1800 737 732) provides information, counselling and support for people affected by family violence and sexual harm.