Family violence support
Western Health is committed to providing support for victims of family violence. If you are experiencing family violence or domestic violence, you are not alone. Help is available – both at the hospital and through a range of support services.
If someone is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000) and ask for police.
What is family violence?
Family violence is any behaviour that causes fear, harm or control over another person in a family, home or intimate relationship. It can include:
- physical harm
- emotional or psychological abuse
- verbal abuse
- financial control
- sexual abuse
- threats or intimidation
- stalking or monitoring.
Family violence can affect people of all genders, ages and backgrounds.
How we can help
If you’re a patient or visitor at Western Health and need support, please speak with one of our staff members.
Our professional team can:
- listen without judgement
- help you access support services
- involve social workers and interpreters if needed
- assist with safety planning and referrals.
Support services available
Our staff can connect you with the following services, or you can contact them directly.
Safe Steps
Victoria’s family violence support service.
Phone: 1800 015 188 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
1800RESPECT
National sexual assault and family violence counselling.
Phone: 1800 737 732 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Crisis and support organisations | Respect Victoria
Respect Victoria is the dedicated organisation for the prevention of family violence and violence against women in Victoria. This page contains several more links in addition to those on this page.
Court network
A free community court support service provided by volunteers that enables people to better understand and navigate the courts.
Phone: 1800 571 239.
The Orange Door
Help for people who are experiencing family violence or who need support with the care and wellbeing of children and young people.
Western Melbourne
Phone: 1800 271 045
Brimbank Melton
Phone: 1800 271 046
Find an Orange Door near you.
Availability: Monday-Friday, 9 am-5 pm
Djirra
Aboriginal community-controlled organisation helping Aboriginal women and their children live free from violence.
Phone: 1800 105 303
Women's Legal Service
Helping women experiencing family violence, separation and divorce to find safety and access legal advice.
Phone: 1800 133 302
Community Legal Centres
Provide free, confidential legal help.
Website: Find a Community Legal Centre
No to Violence
A men’s referral service dedicated to ending male family violence.
Phone: 1300 766 491 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Website: Men's Referral Service
Safe and Equal
Connecting you to specialist family violence support services in Victoria.
Website: Find a service
Elder Abuse
Seniors Rights Victoria
Phone: 1300 368 821 (Ring and select option 1)
Better Place Australia
Phone: 1800 639 523
Kid's Helpline
Phone: 1800 55 1800
Availability: 24/7, every day and night.
Specialist LGBTIQ+ services
The Rainbow Door
Phone: 1800 729 367 (Text 0480 017 246)
Availability: 10 am - 5 pm every day
Specialist Multicultural Service
Services for women and gender non-binary people from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
Intouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence
Phone: 1800 755 988
Availability: Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM