Safety & stability.
If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. That feeling matters, and so do you.
Whether you're trying to make sense of what's happening, quietly planning your next move, or figuring out what to do now that you've left. You've come to the right place. There's no pressure here. Just information, support, and a path forward at your pace.
Unsafe situations can take many forms. Relationship or family violence includes behaviour that is physically, sexually, emotionally, psychologically or financially abusive, as well as behaviour that is threatening, coercive, or designed to control. You don't need a bruise to be in an unsafe situation that requires you to put yourself first.
Find help wherever you are in Australia
Crisis support and local services in your state.
- A trusted friend or family member — even a temporary stay gives you breathing room and someone in your corner
- Crisis accommodation — short-term, safe housing for women and children leaving a violent or unsafe situation, available in every state through the services below
- A refuge or women's shelter — confidential locations where you can stay safely while you plan your next steps
- Your own rental — if it's safe to do so, a property manager cannot disclose your enquiry to anyone
- A hotel or motel short-term — sometimes just one night of space helps you think more clearly
All services below are free and confidential. If you're not sure which service is right for you, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 — they can help connect you with the right local support 24 hours a day.
Trusted organisations
Always available, wherever you are.
1800RESPECT
Australia's national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone or online chat. You don't need to be in crisis to call — they're here at any stage, including if you're just trying to make sense of what's happening.
Open their websiteRelationships Australia
Counselling, family dispute resolution and support services for women navigating relationship breakdown, safety concerns and separation. Available in person and online across all states and territories.
Open their websiteGuides
Find what you need right now.
I'm still in the relationship
How do I know if my relationship is unsafe?
Understanding what a safe relationship looks like — and what it doesn't. A gentle, honest guide to recognising the signs and trusting what you're feeling.
Read the guide →Understanding your options if you feel unsafe — without committing to anything
You don't have to decide anything right now. This guide explains what's available to you so you can understand your situation more clearly, at your own pace.
Read the guide →I'm planning to leave
Preparing to leave safely and practically
A calm, step-by-step companion for women who are starting to think seriously about leaving. Safety, finances, documents, housing — one step at a time.
Read the guide →Keeping your plans private and your information safe
Practical steps for protecting your digital privacy while you plan, including browser history, accounts, devices, and what to keep secure.
Read the guide →I've just left
Your first steps after leaving — what to do right now
You've taken the hardest step. This guide helps you focus on what matters most in the immediate days after leaving — safety, housing, money, and support.
Read the guide →Telling people what's happened — who, when and how
You get to decide who knows, what they know, and when. This guide helps you think through the conversations ahead — family, friends, work, and children.
Read the guide →You don't have to have it all figured out.
There is no right timeline for any of this. Whether you've been thinking about leaving for years or something happened this week — wherever you are is a valid place to start. Help for Her is here whenever you're ready to take the next step.
Common questions
Things women often want to know.
What if I'm not sure it counts as family violence?
Family violence includes much more than physical harm. Emotional abuse, controlling behaviour, financial control, and intimidation are all forms of family violence recognised under Australian law. If something in your relationship makes you feel afraid, controlled, or unsafe — that matters, regardless of whether it fits a particular definition.
Can I get help without involving the police?
Yes. Many support services — including 1800RESPECT and your local state service — are completely independent of police. You can access crisis support, legal advice, housing help, and counselling without making a report. That decision is always yours to make.
What is an intervention order and do I need one?
An intervention order is a legal order that prohibits someone from contacting or approaching you. You don't need to have been physically harmed to apply for one — threats, harassment, and intimidation can all be grounds. The Women's Legal Service in your state can help you understand whether one is right for your situation, or contact your local police station to help you arrange and understand the boundaries and how these can support you.
I have children. Does that change things?
It adds complexity, but it doesn't change your right to safety — or theirs. Support services are experienced in helping women with children plan and leave safely. Children's safety and wellbeing is always considered in any legal or housing support process.
What if I leave and then change my mind?
You are allowed to change your mind. Leaving is rarely a single moment — it is often a process. Support services understand this and will not judge you. Your safety and your choices are yours to navigate, and help will be here whenever you need it.