Family and domestic violence happens when someone uses power and control to hurt, scare, or control someone they are close to. This could be a partner (husband, wife, boyfriend, girlfriend), or someone in the family or household — like a grandfather, grandmother, cousin, uncle, auntie, or carer.
It’s not just about physical violence (like hitting or pushing). It can also include:
Verbal abuse – yelling, name-calling, or putting you down.
Emotional abuse – making you feel worthless, scared, or full of shame.
Financial abuse – taking your money or not letting you use it.
Sexual abuse – being forced to have sex or do things you don’t want to do, or being touched in a way that makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. This is never okay, even in a relationship.
Cultural abuse – stopping you from speaking your language, going to ceremony, or connecting with mob or Country.
Social abuse – keeping you away from family, friends, or community.
Spiritual abuse – using beliefs to shame, scare, or control you.
It’s also common to hear terms like: intimate partner violence (IPV), coercive control, emotional abuse, family violence, sexual violence, domestic abuse, domestic violence (DV) or ‘a domestic’.
Why is this serious?
Violence in families breaks the trust, love, and safety that hold our people and culture strong. It can hurt your spirit, your wellbeing, your children, and your connection to who you are.
It’s not your fault.
No one has the right to control or harm you. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and strong — especially at home and with your mob.
There is help.
You are not alone. There are services and safe people — including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers — who understand and will listen without judgement. They can support you with:
- Yarning in a safe space
- Safety planning
- Healing and counselling
- Housing and legal support
- Help reconnecting with culture, family, and community
Other contacts
National Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Helpline (24 hours): 1800 737 732 (1800 Respect)
Lifeline – 131 114
Kids helpline – 1800 55 1800
DV Connect Women’s Line – 1800 811 811
DV Connect Men’s Line – 1800 600 636
13YARN – 139276
Elder Abuse Queensland – 1300 651 192