Family violence support service information

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 the Orange Door.

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 or someone that you know is experiencing elder abuse, you an contact Seniors Rights Victoria for information and support.

Police stations

Epping 9409 8100 (24 hours)

Mernda 9216 1200 (24 hours)

Mill Park 9407 3333 (24 hours)

Whittlesea 9716 2102

After hours support services

If you are in immediate danger, call the police on 000 (triple zero).

Statewide after-hours services

Safe Steps 1800 015 188

(24 hours, 7 days a week)

• For women and children who are victims of family violence.

Victims of Crime Helpline 1800 819 817 or text 0427 767 891

(8am to 11pm every day)

• For adult male victims of family violence and victims of violent crime.

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

(24 hours, 7 days)

• A free, private and confidential, telephone and online counselling service for young people aged between 5 and 25.

Sexual Assault Crisis Line 1800 806 292

(24 hours, 7 days)

• For victims of sexual assault

Men's Referral Service 1300 766 491

(8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday)

• For men using controlling behaviour,  women seeking information and friends, family or colleagues of people who are using their experiencing family violence.

Child Protection 13 12 78

(5pm to 9am Monday to friday, 24 hours on weekends and public holidays)

• For children and young people whose safety is at risk.

Access information about legal rights and services in different languages.

The Orange Door

The Orange Door is a free service for adults, children and young people who are experiencing or have experienced family violence and families who need extra support with the care of children.

Services offered:

• Women, children and young people's family violence services
• Child and family services
• Aboriginal services
• Men's family violence services

Contact the Orange Door on 1800 319 355, 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (closed on public holidays)

Family Violence Strategy

We have developed a whole-of-council strategy to improve gender equity and prevent family violence against women. Equal and Safe was adopted by Council in 2019.

Support for pets of family violence victims/survivors

You can access temporary accommodation at the Epping Animal Welfare Facility for your pet if you are a victim/survivor of family violence.

Who can access the care?

Family violence services, community services and Victoria Police can access temporary accommodation and care for pets on behalf of victim/survivors of family violence they are supporting.

What type of care will my pet receive?

Your pet will either be kept at EAWF or placed in foster care for up to three weeks. Extended timeframes will be considered on a case by case basis.

Why does this program exist

The program enables Council to play a role in assisting residents who are in emergency or crisis situations

How do I apply for care?

Your support worker can access the service on your behalf by contacting the Animal Management Team 9217 2170.

If you need support, contact Safe Steps on 1800 015 188. In an emergency call 000 (triple zero).