25 November 2019 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and the beginning of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in six women have experienced physical or sexual violence by a current or previous partner since the age of 15, and on average, one woman is killed in Australia every week.
Domestic violence by a current or former spouse or partner, is now the leading preventable contributor to disease burden nationally for women aged 18-44 years old.
Violence against women and girls is not just
an issue for couples and families, but entire communities. Everyone can play a vital role in preventing domestic violence by noticing the signs of abuse early, talking with people who may be effected in a caring and supportive way and encouraging them to use support services.
Support services
Staying safe, and having a plan for what to do in an emergency are necessary for looking after yourself and others. If you are fearful of someone's behaviour in your family or home and worried they may use violence, contact
Triple Zero 000 for immediate assistance or the 24-hour Domestic Violence Line on
1800 65 64 63 for help, support and information.
While most people who use alcohol and drugs do not become violent, people with drug and alcohol problems or those severely affected by drugs may become aggressive or use violent behaviour towards themselves and others.
If you are worried about a family member's alcohol or drug use and their behaviour causes you to feel fearful, worried and helpless, there are dedicated alcohol and drug support services to help. The
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) 1800 250 015 and
Family Drug Support (FDS) 1300 368 186 are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week to support those affected by alcohol or other drugs, including partners, family and friends.
Other general free and confidential support services include:
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1800 RESPECT – call
1800 737 732 for 24/7 domestic and family violence counselling, information and referrals.
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NSW Domestic Violence line - call
1800 656 463 for help, support and information.
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Lifeline – call
13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention service.
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QLIFE – call 1800 184 527 for counselling, support and referrals for LGBTIQ+ people and their families.
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Kids helpline – Kids from age 5 to 25 can contact
1800 55 1800 for private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling.
For more information on 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence visit
16dayscampaign.org.
For free and confidential advice 24/7 call Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015.Counsellors are available to provide information, referrals, crisis counselling and support. Or start a
Web Chat with an ADIS counsellor online Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm.
