​On this page

1. What is domestic violence?
2. What are the signs?
3. Where can I​ get help?
4. How can I support someone else?
5. What is NSW Health doing to help?​
6. Information​​ ​for health​ professionals​​​

What is domestic violence?​

Domestic violence is any behaviour by a person directed against another person with whom they have a domestic relationship that is: 

• violent or threatening behaviour
• behaviour that coerces or controls the other person
• behaviour that causes the other person to fear for their safety or wellbeing, or the safety and wellbeing of others.

Domestic violence may cover many different types of behaviours. It can involve a single act or repeated behaviours.

What are the signs?

Sometimes people may not be sure if what they are experiencing is domestic violence​. Some of the signs include, but are not limited to:

• physical abuse or violence
• sexual abuse, coercion ​or violence
  
• emotional abuse
• stalking
• technology-facilitated abuse
• economic or financial abuse
  
• verbal abuse.

​The Department of Communities and Justice​​​ provides more information on how you can recognise if​ you are in an abusive situation with a partner or family member.

Where can I get help?

If you or someone you know is in critical danger, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. If you are not in an emergency situation, free and confidential support is available when you call:

• 1800RESPECT​: 1800 737 732
• Child Protection Helpline​: 13 21 11
• Domestic Violence Line​​: 1800 65 64 63
• Kids Helpline​: 1800 55 1800
• Lifeline Australia​​: 13 11 14
• MensLine Australia​: 1300 78 99 78
• NSW Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline​: 1800 628 221
• NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
• Victims Access Line​: 1800 633 063
• Aboriginal Contact Line​: 1800 019 123
• Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit​​: 1800 633 063
• Specialist Victims Support Service​​: 1800 633 063
• Family Planning NSW Talkline​​: 1300 658 886
• NSW Pregnancy Options Helpline: 1800 131 231.​
  

Domestic violence can also include sexual violence. NSW Health operates Sexual Assault Services across the state to support people who have experienced sexual violence.​

Are you worried about your use of violence? Please call:

• ​Men’s Referral Service​:​ 1300 766 491
• MensLine Australia​: ​1300 78 99 ​​78. ​
  

​ How can I support someone else?

Many people experiencing domestic violence find it difficult to talk about the abuse with others. If you know or are worried that someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, it's important that you:

• are respectful and calm when you talk with them about it 
  
• listen without judgement
• ask what support you can give
  
• ask how you can help them to stay safe
  
• help them identify and understand their options
• accept and support them to make their own decisions.​

The Department of Communities and Justice​​ provides more information and advice for people supporting a loved one who is experiencing domestic violence.​

What is NSW Health doing to help​?

Additionally, the NSW Government has a range of strategies, initiatives and programs to prevent and respond to domestic violence.​

View programs and initiatives​​​​

Information​​ for health​ professionals

NSW Health has important policies and procedures in place to provide advice and guidance to health staff responding to cases where domestic ​violence is suspected.

View policies and procedures​​