Family violence resources

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"Family violence – also known as domestic violence or abuse – is any abusive behaviour that is used to control someone in a family, family-like or intimate relationship, and makes that person afraid for their safety and wellbeing or the safety of another person. If a child witnesses abusive behaviour or is exposed to the impacts of this, they are a victim of family violence in their own right."

Source: Safe & Equal - What is Family Violence?

Family violence can include behaviours such as:

  • emotional abuse 
  • physical abuse
  • sexual abuse
  • social abuse
  • financial abuse 
  • cultural abuse.

Coercive control is a defining feature of all family violence. It describes a pattern of behaviour where a perpetrator aims to control, manipulate or dominate the victim survivor, diminishing their sense of identity, removing access to support networks and restricting their ability to live autonomously.

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Council's commitment to ending violence

Based on the findings of the 2015 Royal Commission into Family Violence, it is accepted that ‘family violence is a gendered crime’ that is overwhelmingly perpetrated against women by men. 

Council is committed to working together in partnership with the local community and stakeholders to end violence against women and children. Women disproportionately experience intimate partner violence and are more likely to be hospitalised, injured, express fear or be killed by a current or former partner. To address the violence experienced by women, we must recognise its gendered nature and redress this inequity. 

Council acknowledges that all forms of violence, regardless of gender, are unacceptable.

Council's strategic commitment to ending gender-based and family violence is embedded in our Municipal Health and Wellbeing and Gender Equality Action Plans.

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What Council is doing

Council is committed to advancing gender equity and respectful relationships, and reducing family and gender-based violence in our community. Nillumbik's Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan and Gender Equality Action Plan provide a framework for Council to deliver actions to progress this work.

By adhering to the following principles, we will work towards realising our vision where Nillumbik is gender equitable, safe and inclusive for all people:

  • Challenge condoning of violence against women
  • Challenge gender stereotypes and roles
  • Promote women’s independence and decision making
  • Strengthen positive, equal and respectful relationships

Council's commitment is reflected in our participation in the following campaigns, networks and partnerships:

  • 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign
  • Building a Respectful Community (BRC) partnership
  • Banyule Nillumbik Family Violence Network
  • Community partnerships with DV Safe Phone and Escabags

Relevant Council officers also undergo specialist training to be able to respond appropriately to disclosures of family violence by community members.

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Family violence network

Banyule Nillumbik Family Violence Network

Nillumbik Council is proud to co-facilitate the Banyule Nillumbik Family Violence Network.

This community of practice brings together practitioners and external agencies who provide support to people experiencing family violence in Banyule and Nillumbik municipalities.

The network meets bi-monthly and aims to improve coordination of services locally.

Membership of the network is open to representatives from government, non-government, and community-based organisations working in or connected to the family violence sector.

The network is not intended for membership by for-profit entities, sole traders, or individuals or organisations representing commercial or business interests.

For more information about this network, email gender.equity@nillumbik.vic.gov.au.

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Family and gender-based violence services

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000 and ask for the police.

* Denotes a 24/7 service

  • Northern Centre Against Sexual Assault (NCASA) *
    Free therapeutic service to all members of the community aged 12 years and above who have experienced sexual assault (based at Austin Hospital)
    03 9496 2240
    24/7 Crisis Line 1800 806 292
  • Safe Steps * 
    For women and children who are experiencing family violence. 
    24/7 Crisis Line 1800 015 188
  • Men’s Referral Service *
     For men using controlling behaviour, women seeking information and friends, family or colleagues of people who are using or experiencing family violence. 
    1300 766 491 or 03 9428 2899
  • Sexual Assault Crisis Line *
     For people currently experiencing, or victim survivors of sexual assault. 
    1800 806 292
    1800 577 011 If you have experienced sexual assault in the past two weeks in Victoria
  • Victims of Crime Helpline
     The official Victorian Government service offering free information and support for people affected by crime
    1800 819 817 or text 0427 767 891
  • 1800RESPECT *
    Confidential information, counselling and support service supporting people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence and abuse.
    1800 737 732 or text 0458 737 732
  • Kids Helpline *
    Private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.
    1800 55 1800
  • Child protection
     To report children and young people whose safety is at risk.
    North Division intake: 1300 664 977
    After-hours call 13 12 78 
  • Djirra
     Safety and wellbeing support for Aboriginal women experiencing family violence. 
    1800 105 303
  • Dardi Munwurro *
    Dardi Munwurro is an Aboriginal men's crisis line offering 24 hour mental health, family and relationship support.
    1800 435 799
  • Rainbow Door
     Specialist LGBTIQ+ family violence service. 
    1800 729 367 or text 0480 017 246
  • Seniors Rights Victoria
     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.
    1300 368 821

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Contact us

Email

gender.equity@nillumbik.vic.gov.au

 

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