Settlement Guide: 5 facts on domestic violence

Many Australians are affected by domestic violence. It’s often women from multicultural backgrounds who don’t report abuse due to cultural, religious and language factors, as well as fear of deportation.

Source: AAP

1. One in every three Australian women has experienced physical or sexual violence

Source: Pixabay

2. Domestic violence is the leading cause of death and injury in women under 45

Source: Getty Images

3. Each week, on average, a woman is murdered by her current or former partner

When urgent help is needed or an emergency is about to happen call the police on 000.

Source: NSW Police

4. Women from diverse backgrounds are amongst those at the greatest risk of family violence.

Sad woman isolated from friends Source: Getty Images

5. Some women on visas are afraid to report domestic abuse for fear of deportation

Get support to help make difficult decisions from friends or support workers.

Domestic Violence Support Source: Getty Images

If you're in immediate danger call 000.

To speak to a counsellor anytime, call 1800 737 732 (or 1800 R-E-S-P-E-C-T on your keypad) or visit 1800 Respect

Help is available from the Women's Domestic Violence Crisis Service of Victoria (WDVCSV) on 1800 015 188 or those in NSW can call 1800 65 64 63.

For more information visit Respect

The Immigrant Women’s Support Service offers information in several languages.

NSW Police has launched a video campaign titled “It’s not your fault” to raise public awareness about domestic and family violence.