Domestic and family violence

Some services may provide support in different ways as required under the health directives.

Domestic and family violence can include:

• Emotional abuse
• Spiritual abuse
• Verbal abuse
• Physical abuse
• Social abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Stalking and harassment abuse
• Financial abuse
• Damaging property to frighten you
• Depriving you of the necessities of life such as food, shelter and medical care

Signs of domestic and family violence:

• Seem afraid of their partner or someone close to them
• Try to hide bruises
• Have little or no say about how the money is spent
• Stop seeing friends and family and become isolated
• Become depressed, unusually quiet or lose confidence
• Show signs of neglect if they are older or have a disability
• Have a partner who frequently accuses them of cheating or continually checking up on them
• Be reluctant to leave their children with their partner
• Suspect they are being stalked or followed

Most importantly your friend or family member needs your support. Even if there is not any immediate change, your support may help them to consider their options and ultimately ensure their safety.

Tips:

• Only start a conversation if they are alone
• It is important to believe what they tell you
• It is important to listen, not be judgemental or critical
• When they finish talking let them know you care

I want to help someone:

• In an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000)
• If there is no immediate emergency, you can report domestic and family violence to the police by phoning Policelink on 13 14 44
• If someone is escaping from domestic and family violence and needs a place of safety, call DVConnect on 1800 811 811 (Womensline), 1800 600 636 (Mensline) or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
• If you have reason to suspect a child is experiencing, or at risk of, sexual abuse, contact Child Safety Services on 13 QGOV (13 74 68), Child Safety After Hours Service Centre on 1800 177 135 (24 hours a day)

For more information on assistance available, simply download “The Community Relief and Support Agencies in the South Burnett” brochure which specifically identifies groups, organisations and businesses available in the South Burnett who can provide assistance to community members who may be experiencing extraordinary challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

South Burnett Regional Council reminds residents to follow the Queensland Government messaging: If you are sick, stay home; if you're feeling unwell with symptoms of COVID-19, you should contact your doctor about being tested; practice social distancing; continue good hygiene practices.