Understanding family and domestic violence
Family violence
You deserve to feel safe in your relationships. If someone is making you feel afraid, controlled or unsafe, support is available, even if you’re unsure how to describe what’s happening.
Recognising family violence
Family violence, often called domestic violence, can involve abusive, threatening or controlling behaviour from a current or former partner. It can happen during a relationship or after it ends, and it isn’t always physical.
It can include:
- Physical harm or threats towards you, your children or pets.
- Humiliation, intimidation or repeated verbal abuse.
- Controlling your money or access to essential resources.
- Preventing contact with friends and family.
- Monitoring your phone, accounts or movements.
- Sexual contact or activity without your consent.
A pattern of behaviour used to create fear and take away your independence is often called coercive control.
These are some examples. You can ask for support even if you’re uncertain whether you’re experiencing abuse.
How LWS can help
Launceston Women’s Shelter provides support for women, with or without children, experiencing family violence in Northern Tasmania.
Our team provides crisis accommodation as well as practical and emotional support, advocacy, information and referrals. Our family support workers also support children and work alongside mothers to respond to their needs.
Talk to us about our services and accessing support.
Talk to someone
Counselling, information and support for people affected by domestic, family or sexual violence. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call: 1800 737 732
Text: 0458 737 732
A Tasmania Police-operated service connecting people with family violence response, counselling and support services. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.