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Violence and abuse

  • Violence and abuse can happen in any kind of relationship. It is never OK.
  • Violence and abuse take many forms, not just physical.
  • If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit our website for online chat and video call services:
    • Available 24/7: Call, text or online chat
    • Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm AEST (except national public holidays): Video call (no appointment needed) 

What is violence and abuse?

Sexual, domestic and family violence can happen to anyone, regardless of the country they are from, religion, sexuality, gender, age, social background or culture.

It can also happen in any relationship, including with:

  • Boyfriends, girlfriends, partners, husbands or wives
  • Ex-boyfriends, ex-girlfriends, ex-partners, ex-husbands or ex-wives
  • Carers and paid support workers
  • People you work with
  • Parents, guardians and other family members
  • Adult children.

There are different types of abuse, and they are not always physical. Abuse is a pattern of behaviour, to gain power and control.

No matter what your relationship to someone is, sexual, domestic and family violence are never OK.

1800RESPECT can also assist with information on how to support someone who is experiencing violence and abuse, including options for professional support and safety.

Supporting someone can be difficult, so you can contact 1800RESPECT to seek support for yourself, whether you're a friend, family member or professional.

On these pages you will find information about sexual, domestic and family violence and the particular types of abuse that might be involved. You will also find information on how to support someone experiencing violence, as well as options for professional support and increasing safety.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit our website for online chat and video call services. 

There are different types of abuse, and they are not always physical. Abuse is a pattern of behaviour, to gain power and control.

Next steps

Psychological abuse

Psychological abuse is behaviour that aims to cause emotional or mental harm. It may not hurt your body, but can be just as painful and distressing.

Financial abuse

Financial abuse involves someone using money in ways to hurt you, like forcing you to get loans you don't want. It is a form of domestic or family violence and it is not OK.

Physical abuse

Physical abuse happens when someone deliberately hurts your body, or takes away your control of your body. Physical abuse can be a form of domestic and family violence.

acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of this land and pay respect to Elders 1800RESPECT would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of this land and pay respect to Elders, both past and present and extend our acknowledgement to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Please be aware that this website may contain the names, images and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who may now be deceased.

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services (DSS). © 2024 Australian Government or Telstra Health Pty Ltd