Support for Domestic Violence & Abuse | Mid North Coast

Domestic and family violence and abuse affects individuals and families across the Mid North Coast. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, support is available locally as well as through statewide services.

Understanding Domestic and Family Violence

Domestic and family violence can involve patterns of behaviour used to control, intimidate, or harm someone in a close relationship.

This may include:

• Physical violence

• Emotional or psychological abuse

• Financial control

• Sexual abuse

• Coercive control

If something feels unsafe or controlling, it is valid to seek help and support.

Emergency Support

If you are in immediate danger, call 000 or contact NSW Police Force.

24/7 Helplines

• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 – confidential counselling, information, and online chat.

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 – 24/7 crisis support if you are feeling overwhelmed or unsafe.

• NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 65 64 63 – crisis counselling, safety planning, and referrals to local services and refuges.

• Full Stop Australia: 385 578

• 13Yarn: 13 92 76 – culturally safe, confidential helpline for aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

• MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78 – Men who are experiencing abuse (or are concerned about their own behavior). Men seeking help for their use of violence and control can call 1300 766 491. Read more about Men’s Behavior Change Program.

• 1800ELDERHelp: 353 374 – older people experiencing coercive control at the hands of a partner, carer or family member.

• National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 880 052 – Disabled people experiencing any form of abuse, coercive control or neglect.

• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 – Kids seeking counselling or advice can call the Australian Childhood Foundation.

Local Support Services (Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Region)

• Warrina Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services
  Provides crisis support, outreach, and assistance with safety planning for women and children.

• Bellingen Neighbourhood Centre
  Offers local support, referrals, and community-based assistance.

• Galambila Aboriginal Health Service
  Provides culturally appropriate health and wellbeing support, including for those impacted by family violence.

• Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services
  Assists with navigating the legal system, including support with Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs).

Housing and Safety

• Link2Home
  1800 152 152 – support for emergency accommodation and housing.

Support for Diverse Communities

• Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women's Legal Centre
  Legal support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

• Immigrant Women's Speakout Association
  Support for women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

• ACON
  Support for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing domestic or family violence.

Making a Safety Plan

If you are considering leaving or need to increase your safety:

• Keep important documents accessible

• Identify a trusted person you can contact

• Plan how to leave quickly if needed

• Memorise key phone numbers

• Trust your instincts

Local services can help you create a personalised safety plan that suits your situation. Learn more about safety planning.

For Friends, Family, and Professionals

If you are supporting someone:

• Listen without judgment

• Avoid pressuring them to leave

• Encourage connection to professional support

• Respect their autonomy and safety

Learn more about what to do when you are concerned about someone.

You Are Not Alone

Support is available across the Mid North Coast. Whether you are seeking immediate safety, someone to talk to, or longer-term support, there are services in and around Coffs Harbour to help.

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