Domestic violence remains a serious and widespread issue across Brisbane and Queensland, affecting individuals, families, and communities. The impacts extend beyond physical harm — survivors often face lasting emotional and psychological trauma.
Queensland’s legal system provides strong protections for victims through state and federal laws, but navigating those systems can feel overwhelming. That’s where professional legal guidance becomes essential. A family lawyer can help victims understand their rights, apply for protection orders, and connect with vital support services.
As a community, we each have a role to play. This guide outlines eight practical ways to support victims of domestic violence in Brisbane — from recognising abuse to helping them access legal and emotional support.
Please note: this is general information only and not legal advice — please contact VM Family Law for tailored advice. Our full contact details can be found here: https://www.vmfamilylaw.com.au/contact/
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call Police on 000.
Understanding the Cycle of Violence
Domestic violence often follows a repeating pattern known as the “cycle of violence.” This cycle includes tension building, an abusive incident, reconciliation, and a period of calm before the next episode begins.
Recognising this pattern helps explain why victims may find it difficult to leave an abusive relationship. Abusive partners often use intimidation, manipulation, and emotional control to isolate their victims, causing long-term psychological harm and fear.
In Queensland, reports of domestic and family violence remain high, with thousands of incidents recorded each year by the Queensland Police Service. These figures highlight the urgent need for early intervention and strong community awareness.
Legal Protections for Victims
Under Queensland law, victims of domestic and family violence are protected by the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (Qld).
The main legal protection is a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) — a court order that restricts an abusive person’s behaviour to keep victims safe. A DVO can include conditions preventing the respondent from approaching, contacting, or threatening the victim.
If someone you know is experiencing abuse, helping them understand how to obtain a DVO is critical. The process may involve gathering evidence such as medical reports, photographs, or police records, and applying through the Magistrates Court or with police assistance.
Police also have the power to issue temporary protection orders when there’s an immediate risk of harm.
8 Ways to Help Victims of Domestic Violence
Supporting someone experiencing domestic violence takes empathy, knowledge, and action. Here are eight practical ways to help:
1. Recognise the Different Forms of Violence
Domestic violence is not limited to physical harm. It can include emotional, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse. Understanding these forms helps you identify when someone may be in danger and take appropriate steps to help.
2. Encourage Safety Planning
A safety plan helps a person prepare for emergencies. This includes identifying safe places, keeping emergency contacts close, and preparing essential items such as ID, money, keys, and medications. Domestic violence services and community legal centres in Brisbane can assist with personalised safety plans.
3. Know Where to Find Support Services
Queensland offers a wide network of support for victims. Services like DVConnect, the Brisbane Domestic Violence Service (BDVS), and the Domestic Violence Action Centre provide crisis accommodation, counselling, and legal support. Knowing where to refer someone can make a life-changing difference.
4. Connect with Crisis Hotlines and Counselling
Encourage victims to contact a 24-hour crisis line such as 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or DVConnect (1800 811 811). These services offer confidential counselling, advice, and safety planning support. In non-urgent situations, community organisations can provide ongoing emotional and mental health support.
5. Support Legal Action and Documentation
Encourage victims to record incidents of abuse, take photos of injuries, and keep copies of police or medical reports. This evidence is vital for DVO applications and other legal actions. Family lawyers can also help victims understand their rights and represent them in court.
6. Understand the Impact on Children
Children who witness domestic violence can experience long-term trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress. If children are at risk, Child Safety Services or police should be contacted. Support and counselling are available to help children rebuild safety and trust.
7. Offer Emotional and Practical Support
Victims often feel isolated or ashamed. Listening without judgment, helping with transport or appointments, or providing a safe space to talk can make a significant difference. Even small acts of kindness can help a victim feel less alone.
8. Advocate for Community Awareness
Domestic violence is a community issue, not a private one. Promoting respectful relationships, supporting awareness campaigns, and encouraging people to speak out against abuse helps build safer communities across Brisbane and Queensland.
Talk to VM Family Law
If you or someone you care about needs legal advice or protection from domestic violence, VM Family Law’s Brisbane-based team can help. We assist with Domestic Violence Orders, court representation, and family law matters connected to domestic and family violence.
Call 07 3447 8966 to speak with a compassionate lawyer or visit vmfamilylaw.com.au to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the warning signs of an abusive relationship?
Signs may include controlling behaviour, emotional manipulation, threats, or physical harm. Victims may also become withdrawn, fearful, or isolated from friends and family.
What is a Domestic Violence Order (DVO)?
A DVO is a court order that restricts an abusive person’s behaviour to protect the victim. It can include strict conditions and is enforceable by the police.
How does Queensland law protect victims?
The law protects victims through DVOs, Police Protection Notices, and criminal penalties for breaches. Victims may also receive assistance through Legal Aid Queensland or community legal centres.
Where can victims find safe accommodation?
Brisbane organisations such as BDVS, DVConnect, and Centacare provide emergency housing and support for people escaping violence.
What should I do if I witness domestic violence?
Call Police on 000 if someone is in immediate danger. You can also contact 1800RESPECT or DVConnect for confidential advice on how to help safely.
Final Thoughts
Ending domestic and family violence requires legal protection, community action, and compassionate support. Understanding how to help — from recognising abuse to guiding someone towards safety — can change and even save lives.
VM Family Law stands with victims and their families, offering practical legal guidance and support to help them rebuild their lives with safety and dignity.
For confidential advice, call 07 3447 8966 or visit vmfamilylaw.com.au today.
Official Information Sources
Queensland Law Handbook – Domestic and Family Violence
https://queenslandlawhandbook.org.au/the-queensland-law-handbook/family-law/domestic-and-family-violence/Legal Aid Queensland – Domestic and Family Violence
https://www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/Find-legal-information/Relationships-and-children/Domestic-and-family-violenceQueensland Law Society – Domestic Violence and Family Law Resources
https://www.qls.com.au/
