Recognising the signs of domestic violence – it’s not okay

Domestic violence (DV) continues to be a problem in the Tin Can Bay Police Division, with local police attending about 50 DV-related jobs in the first half of 2019 – often attending the same address more than once.

Domestic or family violence occurs when one person in a ‘relationship’ uses violent, threatening or abusive behaviour to control another. Behaviour such as physical abuse, damage to property, sexual abuse, verbal abuse, harassment or intimidation, and financial abuse, are all examples of domestic violence.

There are plenty of early warning signs indicating there is trouble within a relationship and domestic violence is occurring. Some of these signs are jealousy, controlling behaviour, checking up on where their partners goes and who they see, saying things to belittle their partner and continually blaming their partner for things that go wrong.

If you recognise any of the behaviours or signs listed above, it’s time to get help. In an emergency you should always call Triple Zero (000). In a non-emergency situation please come and see us here at the police beat, where we can offer assistance, advice and referral to a professional support service.

If you don’t feel comfortable talking to the police, that’s okay – there are other groups or agencies that can help. If you are concerned for yourself or someone you know, call for confidential advice on how to stay safe:

• DV Connect (women’s line) 1800 811 811 (toll free 24 hours, call cannot be recorded on your telephone account)
• DV Connect (men’s line) 1800 600 636 (9am – 12 midnight, 7 days)
• Relationships Australia 1300 364 277
• Crisis Care 07 3235 9999 or 1800 177 135
• Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service 1800 011 046
• Kids Help Line 1800 551 800

Domestic violence is often described in terms of a cycle, where the controlling behaviour builds until it eventually culminates with some type of ‘explosion’ or incident.

As police we would much rather try to help you before this explosion takes place, rather than picking up the pieces afterwards.

Senior Constable Michael Brantz