Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviour by one person against another within a marriage or dating couple, or within a family across generations.
Domestic and family violence can occur in same-sex marriages or partnerships where one partner assaults another.
It can occur in any family and can take many forms including:
- intimidation
- isolation
- emotional abuse
- verbal abuse
- physical abuse
- sexual abuse
- financial abuse
- spiritual abuse
- control.
In some cases, family violence can also involve elder abuse, where a son or daughter commits a crime against their parent.
All domestic and family violence is unacceptable - you should report it to the police.
Getting support
There are lots of services in South Australia that can help you.
- Domestic Violence Crisis Line - 1800 800 098 or 1800 RESPECT
- Men's Referral Service - 1300 766 491
- Break The Cycle - South Australia's domestic violence support hub