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Family violence

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Family violence is a health issue that affects people across the lifespan. It predominantly affects women and children. Barwon Health recognises that hospitals and health services have a key role in identifying and responding to family violence.

By definition, family violence is behaviour by a person towards a family member that:

  • Is physically or sexually abusive
  • Is emotionally or psychologically abusive
  • Is economically abusive
  • Is threatening or coercive or dominating
  • Causes fear

This definition also includes behaviours that cause a child to witness or hear or otherwise be exposed to the effects of family violence.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these behaviours, our staff are here to help. 

Help is also available from a number of organisations:

  • If you are in an emergency, please call triple zero (000)
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Safe Steps – Family Violence Response Centre is Victoria’s 24/7 statewide first response service for women, young people and children experiencing family violence.   

Phone: 1800 015 188

https://www.safesteps.org.au/ 

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1800RESPECT is the 24/7 national sexual assault, domestic or family violence and abuse counselling service.

Phone: 1800 737 732          

 https://www.1800respect.org.au/? 

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Barwon Community Legal Service provides free legal information, advice and casework to community members in the Geelong, Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula and Colac Otway regions.

Phone: 1300430 599

Website: www.barwoncls.org

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The Sexual Assault Crisis Line (SACL) is a state-wide after-hours (5pm – 9am daily, weekends, public holidays) confidential, telephone crisis counselling service for people who have experienced both past and recent sexual assault.

Phone: 1800 806 292

https://www.sacl.com.au/ 

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No to Violence is the peak body for organisations and individuals working with men to end their violence and abuse towards family members. 

For support call Men’s Referral Service – 1300 766 491

Monday – Friday 8am – 9pm, weekends 9am – 5pm

https://www.ntv.org.au/

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The Orange Door is a free service for adults, children and young people who are experiencing or have experienced family violence and families who need extra support with the care of children. Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm.

Phone: 1800 312 820

Address: 83 Moorabool Street, Geelong

https://orangedoor.vic.gov.au/ 

Last Modified: Monday, 09 May 2022