Domestic Violence

If you are experiencing domestic or family violence, you deserve to be safe and to be heard. We help you understand your options, protect yourself and your children, and protect your visa.

If you are in immediate danger, call 000.

For confidential support 24 hours a day, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732. If you’re worried someone is checking your device, use a safer device or a private browsing window. The Leave this site button (or the Esc key) replaces this page with a weather search. It can’t erase your browsing history, so clear it if that is safe for you.

How we help

Confidential help, at your pace

Our solicitor advises on protection orders, related family law issues and, where you are on a visa, the family violence provisions. We will always ask how it is safe to contact you before we call, text or email.

Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs): applying, responding and variations
Safety planning alongside your legal options
Parenting and property issues where there has been violence
Family violence provisions for some visa holders
Referral to support services and refuges
Safe-contact arrangements: you choose how we reach you

Frequently asked questions

Common questions

What is an ADVO?

An Apprehended Domestic Violence Order is a court order made in NSW to protect a person from violence, threats, harassment or intimidation by someone they have a domestic relationship with. Police can apply for one on your behalf, or you can apply through the Local Court.

What happens if the order is breached?

Breaching an ADVO is a criminal offence. If an order is breached, contact the police. Keep a record of what happened, including dates, times and any messages.

I am on a visa. Will leaving the relationship affect my visa?

Not necessarily. Some partner and other visa applicants may be able to continue their application under the family violence provisions if the relationship has ended and they have experienced family violence. Speak to us first so we can advise on evidence and your options.

Will my information be kept confidential?

Yes. We treat everything you tell us as confidential. We agree with you on the safest way to contact you, and we never leave messages unless you say it is safe.

Can you help me if the other person has made an application against me?

Yes. We can advise you on responding to an application and represent you in court.

Do I need evidence before I speak to you?

No. Talk to us first. We will explain what evidence may help and how to gather it safely.

General information only, not legal or migration advice about your situation. Laws and visa rules change, so please speak to us before acting.

Get in touch

Make a confidential enquiry

Tell us a little about your situation. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day, using the contact method you choose.

Urgent? If you have a visa decision with a deadline, call us now. If you are in danger, call 000.

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What do you need help with?

Safest way to contact you

Briefly, what is happening?

You are not alone

Make a confidential enquiry. Tell us the safest way to contact you.