Where violence is a concern

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While Australian research suggests that few index patients report abuse (physical, psychological or emotional) as a result of notifying contacts, where these are possible, alternative strategies to consider include provider referral contact tracing services, health department contact tracing services or specialist contact tracing services. Anonymous notification services are also available via web-based services. See Ways of Notifying Contacts.

If violence in a relationship is suspected, try asking “Do you feel safe for us to notify your contacts?” and then explore with the patient the options for contact tracing. This would ensure they are linked in with appropriate supports (e.g. 1800-RESPECT the national counselling service or the local domestic violence or sexual assault service in their local area/state). Consideration also needs to be given on how any test results will be given to the patient. This should be discussed with the patient. Seek advice and assistance from specialist contact tracing services.

Health Professional support and resources

RACGP COVID-19 and family violence support  https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/RACGP/Coronavirus/COVID-19-and-family-violence-support.pdf

Abuse and violence - Working with our patients in general practice (White Book) https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/view-all-racgp-guidelines/white-book

The RACGP Professional Development Program on Family Violence  https://www.racgp.org.au/familyviolence/index.htm

With Respect (LGBTIQA+) https://www.withrespect.org.au/professionals-results?searchword=partner%20violence&searchphrase=all

Other Resources

National

National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling 1800RESPECT

Australian Government, Department of Social Services Women’s Safety: Help is here – information and support services

State-Based Services

ACT

Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS Crisis Line: 02 6280 0900

New South Wales

NSW Health Prevention and response to violence, abuse and neglect

Northern Territory

Domestic and Family Violence Centre -YWCA Darwin (DFVC)

Darwin Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Shelter 08 8945 2284 (24 hours)

Queensland

Queensland Government Domestic and family violence

DVConnect: Domestic Violence Helpline 1800 811 811

WWILD: Directory of domestic violence services Directory of domestic violence services

South Australia

SA Government, Domestic and family violence and sexual assault support services

Tasmania

RAIN - Relationships Abuse of an Intimate Nature What can you do when home is not as safe as it should be?

Engender Equality: Family Violence and domestic violence in Tasmania

Victoria

Respect Victoria

Djirra Aboriginal Family Violence Prevention and Legal Services website

InTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence

Queerspace

The Lookout For workers supporting women’s safety in Victoria

Western Australia

Yorgum Aboriginal Family Counselling Service

Multicultural Women’s Advocacy Service

New Zealand

Family violence its not OK. It is OK to ask for help

Shine - New Zealand specialist domestic violence service provider.

Page last updated September 2022