Family Violence
WHGNE is the Lead Agency for the Regional Integration Co-ordinator for the Hume region Integrated Family Violence Services. For more information about family violence prevention visit the Integrated Family Violence Services website - www.familyviolenceservices.com.au.
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence takes a number of forms, such as;
- Physical violence- punching, kicking, pushing, being injured with objects/weapons etc.
- Sexual violence- forced or unwanted sexual contact or activity.
- Psychological and emotional abuse- behaviour which undermines ones self-esteem and sense of self. This includes threats, intimidation, constant put-downs etc.
- Social abuse- controlling where a person goes and preventing contact with friends and family.
- Economic deprivation- withholding money from a person for living expenses when a person is dependant upon another for financial support.
- Racial/spiritual or cultural abuse- taunts that inflict emotional harm and/or preventing someone from practising their chosen religious or cultural beliefs.
As a result of the introduction of new laws created by the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 all these forms of violence are now against the law and are considered a criminal offense.
For more information…
Domestic Violence Victoria Inc. (DV Vic) is a value driven peak advocacy organisation committed to the rights of women and children to live free of violence.
Key documents for further reading…
A Right to Respect: Victoria’s Plan to Prevent Violence against Women 2010 – 2020
A Right to Safety and Justice: Strategic Framework to Guide Continuing Family Violence Reform in Victoria 2010 – 2020
Strong Culture, Strong Peoples, Strong Families: Towards a safer future for Indigenous families and communities 10 year plan
Family Violence Safety Plan
If you or someone you know are experiencing family violence, their safety is a priority. On the Health Information page on this website you can find services to support people who are experiencing family violence. This is a list of items which can be printed off and used to help somebody think through their own safety needs, especially if they are considering leaving their home and/or their violent relationship.
What To Take In An Emergency:
- Bank books, Passports, Birth certificates
- Money put aside
- Mobile telephone with police 000/local police number/close friend's numbers already programmed in
- Bag packed with necessary items for the family for example toiletries, baby items if necessary, spare set of keys, change of clothing and underwear
- Inform your neighbours, family and friends of your situation in the event if anything happens they know what to do
- Medicare card or write down your Medicare card number
