Domestic violence is increasing in Australia, but you can get help
Domestic violence is increasing in Australia, a new report says.
The Victorian Crime Statistics Agency found offences increased by 18% in the year to June 30, 2021 with more than 174,000 incidents reported.
The number of incidents where a child was recorded as present increased by 35% between 2018/19 and 2020/21 to 34,000. Key Victorian leaders are looking to make Victoria the first state in Australia where it would be an offence to commit a family violence act in front of a child.
Family violence has become a big topic of conversation over the past few years, from endless news articles about harrowing incidents, to a reported rise during lockdowns when families were confined to their homes
Seeking assistance can be daunting when you are experiencing domestic violence things, so here are some tips on what you can do.
One way victims can get assistance is through Lunch with a Lawyer, a private Facebook group, founded by New Way Lawyers, where anyone experiencing a family law issue such as separation, divorce or domestic violence can ask questions for free. Every weekday between 12pm – 1pm, an experienced family lawyer from New Way Lawyers is available to answer your family law questions. If you need to discuss a sensitive topic, you are welcome to send a private message to Lunch with a Lawyer.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providers partner with employers to provide services such as counselling free of charge to employees. This means you may be entitled to access free support via your workplace. Talk to your HR or People & Culture team, check your intranet or speak with your Manager to find out who your EAP provider is and what services you may benefit from accessing.
If you are not eligible for government funded legal services, it may be helpful to contact New Way Lawyers. New Way Lawyers is Australia’s first non-profit family law firm, offering accessible and caring legal advice. With fees about a third less that private law firms, such fees only cover their operating costs. This makes their fees more affordable and their approach to your matter more personal.
If you feel that you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call the Police on 000. Keeping yourself and your family safe is priority.
About: New Way Lawyers is Australia’s first non-profit law firm. 13 years ago, New Way Lawyers was established with a non-profit structure to offer Australian’s an alternative approach to family law. For those wanting to join the Lunch with a Lawyer group, search Lunch with a Lawyer on Facebook and request to join. If you would like to contact New Way Lawyers directly, you can phone them for a free 20 minute consult on (07) 3548 5890. They have also just launched a new office in Victoria.
Photo: Kulli Kittis/Unsplash
