DV Assist is here to help, with information, resources and practical support for those experiencing or concerned about others who may be experiencing domestic and family violence
Domestic and family violence can often be hard to define and understand. Behavioural abuse, emotional abuse and psychological abuse can all be forms of domestic and family violence. This website is a resource to help you to learn more about domestic and family violence, and to connect you to local domestic and family violence help.
For some visitors to this site, you may know you want or need to leave your partner. Or you may need to or want to stay, and instead learn how to manage your situation, either in the home or online (or both). For family and friends who may be worried for your loved ones, you are welcome to use this site to find help and information.
The biggest challenge people face who are experiencing family and domestic abuse in the country are:
- Distance from family and friends You may live, or have moved, far away from family and friends, or you’re living in a remote town or on a remote farm thus making it difficult for your friends and family to help you, and there may be nowhere close for you to go for help.
- Tight-knit communities The police, doctors, and lawyers in your area may know both you and your partner. This may deter you from speaking out.
- Complex financial arrangements Money is often tied up in farms and difficult to access should you need to leave. The lack of employment opportunities may also make it difficult to be financially independent.
- Limited access to services Because of the scarcity of services (such as doctors, lawyers, police) in the country, you may have difficulty accessing them or they may come too late.
- Gun ownership There is a higher rate of gun ownership in regional areas which increase’s a victim’s vulnerability and can leave you living in fear and feelings of powerlessness.
We know that many people have questions or are looking for help in relation to:
- Mental health and narcissistic traits.
- The role of police intervention if it does not seem to be an emergency.
- Rent assistance, emergency housing or refuge accommodation.
- Financial and legal options.
- Caring for children in domestic and family violence situations.
