I Witnessed Abuse

Your response can save lives. If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, you can get help for them.

 

Report Domestic Violence

Contact the police if there is imminent danger

Call 999 or SMS 70999

Contact the National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline (NAVH)

Call 1800-777-0000 or make an online report via the NAVH Reporting Form

Important things to note before making a report

Airtime charges apply for mobile calls to 1800 service lines.

 

How to Help Someone Who is Abused or Suffering Domestic Violence

A.R.T. of Safe Interruption

As a community, we have the responsibility to help others by safely interrupting when we witness violence. Do not assume that others will step in. To help, you can follow the A.R.T. of Safe Interruption.

 

 

Signal for Help

 

The Signal for Help is a simple one-handed gesture that victims of violence can use to discreetly show they need help and would like someone to check in on them, without alerting the perpetrator.

This signal is done by first holding up one hand with the thumb tucked into the palm, and then folding four fingers over the thumb.

Share the Signal for Help with others to help raise awareness. This simple act could help someone in the future.

 

What to do if You See the Signal for Help

  • Be discreet as you try to help the victim. Do not respond immediately to avoid alerting the perpetrator, who may be in the vicinity
  • Reach out to the victim by using another form of communication (e.g. SMS, WhatsApp, social media, email)
  • Ask the victim general “yes” or “no” questions to reduce risk and make it easier for them to respond (e.g. “Are you OK?”, “Can you talk safely now?”, “Do you need help?”, “Shall I call the police?”)