Find support when home doesn’t feel safe
Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home and relationships.
If something doesn’t feel right - if you feel controlled, afraid, or silenced - it’s okay to reach out.
You are not alone, and it’s not your fault.
Family and domestic violence isn’t only physical. It can be emotional, psychological, financial, or sexual. Sometimes, it looks like love and care from the outside but feels like fear and confusion on the inside.
Violence and control can happen to anyone - regardless of age, income, or background. It’s not caused by anger, stress, or alcohol; it’s about power and control.
Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour that might include:
Constant criticism or humiliation
Monitoring your movements, calls or social media
Controlling money, work, or friendships
Blaming you for their behaviour
Making you feel responsible for keeping the peace
These behaviours wear down confidence and independence.
Over time, they can make you feel trapped or unsure of your own reality.
You might notice:
Feeling anxious or “walking on eggshells”
Hiding parts of your life or making excuses for someone’s behaviour
Being told you’re “crazy” or “too sensitive”
Having limited access to money, transport, or communication
Feeling unsafe when you speak up or make decisions
It can take time to recognise that these patterns add up to abuse. Trust your instincts - if it doesn’t feel safe or respectful, it probably isn’t.
You can reach out for confidential support
Reaching out for help doesn’t mean losing control - it means taking it back.
It’s not about being fearless; it’s about being brave enough to believe you deserve safety, respect, and peace.
You’re not alone, and there are people ready to help you find your way forward.
If you’re not sure but something doesn’t feel right, you can talk confidentially - even just to ask questions.
You deserve to be heard and to get support in a way that feels safe for you.
If you’re not safe right now
If you’re in danger, call 000.
You don’t have to be ready to leave, give your name, or make a report.
1800RESPECT – Free, confidential 24/7 counselling and online chat for anyone experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence.
If you’re not ready to call, you can start with online chat at 1800RESPECT.org.au
NSW Police and the Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS)
This service allows women aged 16 and over to connect with specialist domestic violence practitioners via audio visual link.
Available at Deniliquin Police Station Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Local help near Deniliquin
MLHD Violence, Abuse and Neglect Services – Support and counselling through Murrumbidgee Local Health District.
Vinnies NSW – Housing and homelessness services – Safe housing and emergency support.
NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 64 63) – for women experiencing domestic or family violence.
Understanding what’s happening
Understanding family violence - https://safeandequal.org.au/understanding-family-violence/
1800RESPECT – Mental health and domestic violence – Explains the link between trauma and mental wellbeing.
NSW Legal Aid – Domestic and family violence – Your rights and legal options.
Extra resources:
Safety planning guide – Step-by-step advice on preparing to leave safely and what to pack.
Tech safety checklist – Tips for keeping your phone and online accounts secure.
Legal Aid NSW - legalaid.nsw.gov.au/my-problem-is-about/my-family-or-relationship/domestic-and-family-violence
Safety planning - 1800respect.org.au/help-and-support/safety-planning
Linking Communities Network – WDVCAS – Advocacy and legal protection for women and children.
If you’re supporting someone else
Three ways to support survivors – Gentle guidance on how to listen and respond safely.
