Support services
If you are in immediate danger, call the police on 000.
For 24 hour emergency help contact Safe Steps Family Violence Response Service on 1800 015 188.
For advice and assistance with family violence contact Berry Street Northern Family and Domestic Violence Service on 9450 4700 (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday) or search our Community Directory for other services.
Access information about legal rights and services in different languages.
About family violence
Family violence is abuse by a person to someone they are in a family-like relationship with including their spouse, partner, children and in-laws.
Family violence includes:
- any type of physical violence, such as slapping or punching
- forcing someone to take part in sexual acts, even if you are married
- making threats or calling names
- controlling contact with people outside the family
- denying someone access to money
- children witnessing this abuse
Family violence is against the law and is never your fault. Find out more about the types of family violence and the causes by visiting Safe Steps.
Elder abuse
Elder abuse is any act which causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust, such as a family member or friend. It may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual.
If you, your client or someone that you know is experiencing elder abuse, please contact Seniors Rights Victoria.
Police can help
If you or others are in immediate danger call the police on 000. You can also call your local police station for anonymous advice.
Police stations
Epping 9409 8100 (24 hours)
Mernda 9216 1200 (24 hours)
Mill Park 9407 3333 (24 hours)
Whittlesea 9716 2102
Police can issue a Family Violence Safety Notice and remove a violent person from the home for up to 5 days.
Information for families, friends and neighbours
If your friend, neighbour or family member is being hurt or abused by their partner, you can help make a difference.
The Domestic Violence Resource Centre has developed a guide to help when supporting female and male victims of abuse.
Family Violence Strategy
We have developed our whole-of-council Family Violence Strategy 2014-2018 - called 'Safe in our homes, safe in our communities' - to address family violence from the perspective of prevention, early intervention and intervention.