Know the Signs
Domestic, family, and sexual violence can affect anyone – knowing the signs of an abusive relationship can help you or someone you care about recognise unsafe behavior and reach out for support.
Emotional Abuse
Sometimes abuse doesn’t leave a bruise. It might look like constant criticism, controlling behaviour, threats or manipulation that slowly chip away at a person’s confidence and independence.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse involves the use of force that causes pain, injury or fear. It may include hitting, pushing, restraining or threatening to use violence. No one should ever feel unsafe in their own home or relationship.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse happens when someone is forced, pressured or tricked into sexual activity without consent. It can occur in intimate relationships and often leaves deep emotional scars alongside physical harm. Consent is always your right.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse is when someone controls another’s access to money, limits the ability to work or forces a person to hand over income or assets. It creates dependency and restricts a person’s freedom to make choices for themselves.
Social Abuse
Social abuse happens when a person is isolated from friends, family or community. It may involve monitoring movements, cutting off communication or spreading false stories. This kind of control often leads to isolation, making it harder for someone to seek support.
Technological Abuse
Technological abuse can include the use of phones, social media, GPS or online accounts to harass, monitor or intimidate. It can create the sense that there’s no safe space, but there are ways for a person to protect their privacy and regain a sense of safety.
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
For after-hours domestic and family violence support, contact the DVConnect Women’s Line on 1800 811 811.
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Open hours
Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm
Emergency contacts
After Hours Support
Further information
If you are needing domestic violence help or advice, please contact our team to book a free appointment.
If you are another organisation making a referral, please complete our referral form and email it to intake@dvrs.org.au.
Mackay Women’s Service acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work, and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
We acknowledge, celebrate, and stand alongside LGBTQIA+ communities. We are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.
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