What is Domestic Abuse?

At Esker House we will never tell a woman what to do. Our purpose is to make sure a woman has all the information that she needs to make decisions that will work for her.

Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence is the physical, emotional, sexual or mental abuse of one person by another within close, intimate or family relationship.

In most situations the abuser uses a range of abusive behaviours to gain and ensure power and control over the other person and these abusive actions often get worse over time.

In most cases women are the victims of domestic violence and male partners (husbands, boyfriends or ex’s) the perpetrators. Domestic violence can also occur between family members, between same sex couples and be perpetrated by women against men.

We can provide the following:

• Discussion about the situation and support a woman to recognise the abuse
• Safety plan: Give information to help women keep safe in an abusive relationship or how to leave safely
• Information and referrals to other relevant services such as social welfare, family support, legal aid, parenting support, housing and any other needs the woman may have.

Are you or someone you know experiencing domestic violence or abuse?
Call our Helpline 24/7
on 1800 662 288