Quick Exit

Domestic Violence Support

Domestic Violence Support & Safety Planning

Important: The information on this page is general guidance only and is not legal advice.

Immediate Help

If you or your children are in immediate danger, call 000 or go to the nearest police station.

Domestic violence can escalate quickly and unpredictably. You have the right to live safely and free from violence.

If you are thinking about leaving, take extra care to protect your safety. For example, if you print this information, consider keeping it with a trusted friend rather than at home.

Know Your Rights & Get Support

  • Learn about your rights through free domestic violence support services and trusted online resources.
  • Consider applying for a Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO).
  • Speak with police or a domestic violence hotline about whether an FVRO is appropriate for you.
  • If you have a FVRO:
    • Always keep a copy with you.
    • Provide copies to your children’s school and your workplace.
    • Share a photo of your partner with front desk or security staff if appropriate.

Document the Abuse

Collect evidence when it is safe to do so:

  • Take photos of injuries or damaged property.
  • Screenshot threatening messages, voicemails, or repeated missed calls.
  • Keep records of police reports or medical visits related to abuse.

Planning to Leave Safely

Leaving a violent relationship can be the most dangerous time. Planning ahead can help reduce risk.

Assess Your Situation

  • Identify safe places in your home and community.
  • Try to keep a phone with you at all times.
  • Learn your partner’s patterns and warning signs.
  • Know where you can go in an emergency.

Emergency Contacts

  • Memorise or write down important phone numbers (police, DV hotline, friends, family).
  • Set up a code word with trusted people to signal danger.

Escape Plan

  • Plan how to leave quickly and safely.
  • Practice your plan if possible.
  • Know where you will go (police station, friend’s home, shelter).
  • Plan for pets if you have them.

Pack Essentials

  • Prepare a bag with clothes, toiletries, and necessities.
  • Leave it with someone you trust.
  • See “What to Take With You” below for details.

Communication & Safety

  • Share your plan with someone you trust.
  • Use a secret word or signal with your children.
  • Hide a spare key and keep your phone charged.

Staying Safe After Leaving

  • Change locks and consider changing your phone number.
  • Vary routines, including work hours and travel routes.
  • Inform schools or childcare about the situation and provide any legal orders.
  • Update passwords on all accounts and log out of shared devices.
  • Review privacy settings on social media and block your abuser.
  • Check for spyware or tracking devices:
    • Police can help check phones, vehicles, and homes.
    • If devices are found, give them to police.

What to Take With You

You may not have time to take everything. Prioritise what is most important.

Identification

  • Birth certificates (yours and your children’s)
  • Driver’s licence or photo ID
  • Passports
  • Medicare/Welfare cards
  • Immigration or residency documents

Important Documents

  • Marriage or divorce papers
  • Custody orders
  • Restraining orders
  • Health insurance and medical records
  • Children’s school records
  • Lease, mortgage, or property documents
  • Car registration, insurance, and title
  • Bank, investment, and account details
  • Police reports or evidence of abuse

Money & Access

  • Cash
  • Credit or ATM cards
  • Chequebook or bank details

Keys

  • Home, car, post office box, or safety deposit box keys

Communication

  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Contact list of trusted people and services
  • Laptop or tablet if safe to take

Medication

  • At least one month’s supply of medications
  • Copies of prescriptions

Practical & Emotional Items

  • Jewellery or small valuables that could be sold if needed
  • Photos, keepsakes
  • Children’s favourite toys or books

You Are Not Alone

Support is available. If you are unsure where to start, contact a domestic violence support service or speak with police. Help is available 24/7.

  • If life is in danger, call 000
  • Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline – 1800 007 339
  • National Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service (1800RESPECT) – 1800 737 732