If you don’t have to live with it, domestic and family violence is probably something you don’t like to think about. There are many people, however, for whom this isn’t an option.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has reported that:
- Two in five Australian adults had experienced violence since the age of 15.
- One in six women and one in seventeen men experienced partner violence.
- One in six women and one in ten men experienced abuse before age of 15.
In NSW, domestic assaults have increased 2.4% while incidences of breached apprehended violence orders (AVOs) have increased by 7.2% since 2016.
We should all be concerned about these alarming and unacceptable statistics.
If you are experiencing (or know someone experiencing) domestic or family violence, there are local services you can reach out to or share to receive the appropriate support.
PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SERVICES ARE FOR NON-URGENT SUPPORT. IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING AN IMMINENT CRISIS, CALL EMERGENCY SERVICES ON 000 IMMEDIATELY.
Domestic and Family Violence Support Services in the Sutherland Shire and NSW
The Family Co.
Formerly known as ‘Sutherland Shire Family Services’, The Family Co. (based in Jannali) offers extensive services for anyone experiencing domestic or family violence including caseworkers, support groups and court advocacy services. Their website has a Quick Exit button, allowing you to shut it quickly if you need to.
Contact (02) 9528 2933, [email protected] or lodge an online referral for yourself or someone else.
Orana
Orana is located in Sutherland and provides domestic and family violence caseworkers and assistance for families in the Sutherland Shire.
Contact (02) 9521 8280 or [email protected]
Hopefield
This Kirrawee-based service offers Case Managers to help people experiencing domestic and family violence.
Contact (02) 9545 0299 or [email protected]
1800-RESPECT
1800-respect is a 24-hour telephone counselling service for anyone needing support relating to domestic, sexual, or family violence. If you’re not sure how to help a friend who you suspect may be experiencing any of these forms of violence, or your own safety is at risk, you can call them for advice at any time of the day. They also offer online advice for planning to escape your situation.
Contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or through their online chat.
Family and Community Services (FACS)
As well as providing information on how to stay safe and seek appropriate help, FACS offer a Domestic Violence Helpline that you can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Contact 1800 656 463 or 1800 671 442 TTY (Hearing impaired)
Women’s Safety NSW
For information, assistance and court advocacy services for women and children experiencing domestic and family violence.
Contact 1800 938 227
Women’s Legal Services NSW
Free confidential legal information, advice and referrals offered face-to-face or via phone for women in New South Wales.
Contact 1800 801 501
Please know that help is near, and remember to call 000 if you are experiencing an emergency of any kind.
