Domestic Violence Brochure - General

What is domestic and family violence?

Domestic or family violence occurs when one person in a “relationship” uses violent or abusive behaviour to control another.

The behaviour which may be classified as domestic or family violence includes:

• Physical abuse
• Damage to property
• Sexual abuse
• Verbal abuse
• Harassment or intimidation
• Financial abuse, or
• Threatening any of the above.

Domestic violence does not just occur between spouses. There are a number of relationships offered protection under the laws of Queensland. These include:

• Spousal — including defacto, biological parents of a child or same sex couples
• Intimate personal — two people in an established relationship (does not have to be sexual)
• Family — related by blood or marriage, or culturally related
• Informal care — unpaid carer who assists with day to day living.

A person under 18 can be named in a domestic or family relationship, as long as that relationship is spousal, intimate personal or informal care.

In Queensland a person who uses domestic violence is called a respondent and a person affected is called an aggrieved.

Who does it affect?

Domestic violence can have a significant impact not just on the victims of the violence or abuse, but those who reside in the house including children and pets.

Victims of domestic or family violence can not only be left with serious physical injuries but abuse can affect their confidence, self esteem and ability to make clear judgements.

Children are often those who can be affected the most. Exposure to domestic and family violence may take away a child’s sense of security and safety. Some possible effects can include:

• Physical injury
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Poor sleeping habits
• Anger, hitting or biting
• Withdrawn behaviour, and/or
• Low self esteem.

Risk factors

Research has identified the key factors associated with a person’s increased risk of being affected by domestic and family violence. The factors included here are in no way exhaustive, and above all, a person needs to assess their own situation for dangers. Some indicators of increased risk include:

• Recent separation
• Escalation of attacks (becoming longer, more violent)
• Antisocial behaviour of the respondent
• Depression of the respondent
• Use of strangulation/hands around neck
• Threats of homicide or suicide
• Substance abuse.

How do I recognise it?

Victims of physical violence can be easier to identify than those who suffer from emotional or psychological abuse. Often this form of abuse can go on for long periods of time without being identified.

Some early warning signs can include:

• Jealousy
• Controlling what their partner wears
• Constantly checking up on who their partner sees or where they are going
• Controlling how much their partner spends
• Saying things to belittle or talk their partner down
• Continually placing blame on their partner if something goes wrong.

What can I do?

If you suspect someone you know is involved in domestic violence there are certainly ways you can help. It is never advisable to put yourself in a position where you could be in danger. Always contact police in an emergency or if someone’s life is in danger. You can contact your local police station or alternatively ring Triple Zero (000).

By just offering support or being there to listen can often be an important first step in helping resolve the situation.

Who can help?

There are many support and referral agencies available to provide assistance.

In an emergency dial Triple Zero (000).	DV Connect (women’s line) 1800 811 811 (Toll free 24 hours, call cannot be recorded on your telephone account).
Relationships Australia 1300 364 277	Crisis Care 07 3235 9999 or 1800 177 135
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service 1800 011 046	Kids Help Line 1800 551 800
Alcoholics Anonymous Helpline (10am-10pm 7 days) 07 3255 9162	Drug Arm (Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm) 1300 656 800
Mensline (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) 1800 600 636	Immigrant Women’s Support Service (Mon, Tue, Thurs, Fri 9am-4pm) 07 3846 3490
Legal Aid Queensland 1300 651 188	Women’s Legal Service 07 3392 0670
Interpreting and Translating Service 131 450	Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Legal and Advocacy Service (Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm) 1800 442 450 or 07 3392 3177
Lifeline (Counselling Service) 131 114

For more information, please visit the Queensland Police Service (Domestic Violence) website on:

http://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/crimeprevention/dv/default.htm

Mission Statement

To serve and protect the people of Queensland by protecting life and property, preserving peace and safety,  preventing crime and upholding the law in a manner which has regard for the public good and the rights of the individual.