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Legal and safety

Help with safety and family violence

Find urgent help and support for a safety plan suited to your circumstances.

Get urgent help when you need it

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000 for police, ambulance or fire services. You cannot send a text message to this emergency number.

For domestic, family or sexual violence support, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, or use its online support. You can seek support while still in a relationship, after leaving, or when you are unsure what is happening. Choose a contact method that is safe for you.

Make a plan with someone who understands the risks

A specialist worker can help you think through safety at home, when separating and afterwards. Leaving or announcing a separation can increase danger. You do not have to confront the other person or make an immediate decision to get support.

A plan can consider children's needs, disability support, medication, transport, pets and somewhere safe to go. If it is safe, involve a trusted person. Tell the worker about threats, control over money, stalking or barriers to getting help so the plan fits your circumstances.

Consider devices and contact details before making changes

Monitoring can involve shared accounts, location tools or access to your phone. Account changes can alert another person or affect a child's safety. If you suspect monitoring, use a safer device where possible and ask a specialist about the safest next step.

Calls, messages and browser use may leave records. 1800RESPECT calls are normally recorded; you can ask about recording and privacy. A quick-exit button does not clear browser history or prevent monitoring. Avoid changing or removing possible evidence before getting advice if doing so could increase risk.

Ask about legal and practical protection

Police and local courts handle protection orders, whose names and processes vary by state and territory. Ask how an existing order works if you cross a border. National recognition is available, with different arrangements for some older orders. Parenting proceedings and protection orders need coordinated advice.

Before changing sensitive agency details, ask Services Australia about safely separating linked records. A support worker can also help you find housing and financial assistance. Access depends on your circumstances.

Emotional and financial support also matter

For crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For free, independent financial counselling, contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. These services can help you consider options without having every document or decision ready.

The Leaving Violence Program has separate eligibility rules for adults experiencing intimate partner violence and financial stress who have changed, or plan to change, their living arrangements. It can offer financial and practical support. It is not an emergency service. Check the DSS overview or ask a specialist worker.

Use the state directory for local legal, housing and specialist support. If contacting a service could be noticed, begin with the private planning guide and ask about a safe contact arrangement.

Your next step

Use the official links above, or find local services in your state.

Sources for this guide

Related guides

Wording reviewed 5 October 2026. Numerical rules have separate verification dates on Sources and updates.