Domestic Violence Support
For over 20 years during the 1950s, 60s and 70s my mother endured domestic violence and abuse alone. There were no welfare or support services for women (or men) until the mid to late 70s. Police, medical and legal professionals were overwhelmingly unhelpful especially in country or outer suburban areas. Often it was because they didn’t want to get involved in what were considered private family matters. As a child I was very aware of the injustice of this and the effect it had on my mother.
My voluntary work with women and children in refuge and crisis accomodation at McAuley Community Services for Women has shown me that the damage caused by domestic violence has not changed; however, community understanding and support is improving. I have seen first hand the amazing work that essential services such as those listed below perform. Use them, refer people you know to them, support them. Donations to McAuley Community Services for Women can be made here.
Frontline support services in Australia:
- 1800 Respect national helpline: 1800 737 732
- Women’s crisis line: 1800 811 811
- Men’s referral service: 1300 766 491
- Lifeline (24 hour crisis line): 131 114
- Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277
- Vic Safe Steps crisis response line: 1800 015 188
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NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463
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Qld DV Connect Womensline:1800 811 811
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ACT 24/7 Crisis Line: (02) 6280 0900
- Tas Family Violence Counselling and Support Service:
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SA Domestic Violence Crisis Line: 1800 800 098
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WA Women's Domestic Violence 24h Helpline: 1800 007 339
- NT Domestic violence helpline: 1800 737 732
Regeneration
Across Australia there are thousands of volunteers like my mother working with organisations that are tackling environmental threats to our country. If you are interested in helping, search for Landcare, Bushcare or Coastcare in your local area.