Family violence can leave deep and enduring scars. For single mother survivors, it often reshapes how they see themselves, how they relate to others, and how safe they feel making decisions in everyday life. Confidence, trust and a sense of self-worth can be gradually eroded, with impacts that reach far beyond the period of abuse.

Those who use violence commonly create an environment of fear and control, where victims may be made to believe they are unable to leave the relationship or their home, or that they cannot keep themselves or their children safe. Threats, intimidation and manipulation are frequently used to convince victim survivors that leaving will only make things worse.

Emotional, verbal, physical and sexual abuse are often combined to maintain power, leaving people fearful for their safety and feeling trapped. Over time, this sustained abuse can strip away a person’s sense of agency and have serious consequences for their emotional, mental and physical health.

“I am in immediate danger”

If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger, call 000 straight away. Police, ambulance and fire services are trained to respond to emergencies and can provide urgent help when it’s needed most.

“My safety is at risk”

Safe Steps supports anyone in Victoria experiencing family or domestic violence, 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Their service is confidential, inclusive and focused on safety.

Support is tailored to individual circumstances and can include help for children and pets. If you are feeling unsafe or afraid, reach out now.

Phone: 1800 015 188

Email: safesteps@safesteps.org.au

Live chat: Safe Steps

“I am worried about a friend or loved one”

If you’re concerned about someone who may be experiencing family or domestic violence, it’s normal to feel unsure about how to help. Simply asking, listening without judgment, and believing them can make a powerful difference on their path to safety. If the person is in immediate danger, call 000.

To learn more about how to support someone you care about, visit Are You Safe at Home?

Safe Steps

Safe Steps provides 24/7, confidential family violence support for people living in Victoria. Their services offer practical, compassionate assistance, including:

· 24/7 Crisis Support: Someone to listen, believe you, and help you take steps toward safety.

· Disability Support: Accessible, inclusive support tailored to individual needs.

· Crisis Accommodation: Safe places for individuals and families escaping violence.

· Pets in Crisis Program: Temporary care for pets through partnerships with animal shelters, including wellbeing support.

· Family Advocacy and Support Services (FASS): Social support in collaboration with the Melbourne registry of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

The Orange Door

Help for people who are experiencing or using family violence or who need support with the care and wellbeing of children and young people. Find an Orange Door location near you: https://www.orangedoor.vic.gov.au/

InTouch

Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence: A specialist family violence service that works with multicultural women, their families and their communities: https://intouch.org.au/ Phone: 1800 755 988

Djirra

Supports Aboriginal people who are experiencing or have experienced family violence: https://djirra.org.au/ Phone: 1800 105 303

1800RESPECT

Free confidential information, counselling and support service to support people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Centrelink support for people experiencing family violence

Centrelink offers a range of assistance for people affected by family and domestic violence, including:

· Crisis Payment: A one-off payment for people facing severe financial hardship after experiencing violence, including those who have left or are planning to leave their home. Contact Centrelink or make a claim within 7 days of your living arrangements changing.

· Urgent Payment: Additional financial assistance in exceptional circumstances, such as family violence.

· Social Work Support: Services Australia social workers trained to support people with family violence-related needs.

· 24/7 Support Services: Direct support for women and children or young people affected by violence, including counselling and group programs.

More information is available via Services Australia: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/family-and-domestic-violence

CSMC is here to help

CSMC understands that the effects of violence can continue long after the abuse has ended. You may be dealing with financial stress, housing challenges, Centrelink issues, supporting your child’s wellbeing, or considering study or work options.

Our Support Workers—all single mothers with lived experience—take the time to truly listen and understand what you need. They can provide brief intervention by helping you navigate services, connect you with referrals, and support you and your family to move forward with confidence and stability, wherever you are in your recovery journey.