Among the many issues facing women globally, domestic violence remains one of the most prevalent. Close to three million women in Australia have experienced violence, emotional abuse or economic abuse by a partner since the age of fifteen. Four million people in Australia have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by a family member. Clearly, Australia has a problem.
I am a survivor of childhood family violence. I know what it takes to carry those experiences in silence every day. I know the strength, resilience, courage and determination that it takes to move forward and rebuild your life.
For the first time I am using my public voice to speak up and break the silence - so that other women know they aren’t alone. My hope in sharing this message is that it may give just one other woman the courage to seek help, or just one other person in my network the courage to stand up or speak up to protect someone else.
You are not defined by what someone else does to you
This International Women’s Day, SEAOAK celebrates the strength, courage, and resilience of women around the world. And we stand in solidarity with those who have endured domestic violence or abuse and emerged stronger. To the inspiring women all around us - let this day serve as a powerful reminder that you are not defined by what has happened to you.
For far too long, domestic violence has thrived in silence behind closed doors. Most survivors carry the weight of their experiences for the rest of their lives. But here’s the truth: you are not broken. You are whole. You are worthy. What someone does to you does not define you—your resilience and determination to move forward define you. Every scar, whether visible or invisible, tells a story—not of defeat, but of survival. You are more than your past, more than your pain, and more than the struggles you have endured.
Where to get help
Too many women suffer in silence, believing they have nowhere to turn. But support exists, and please know that you are not alone. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is a declaration of your worth. Lean on those who uplift you—friends, family, support groups, organisations dedicated to empowering survivors. There is a whole community that stands with you, ready to walk alongside you.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence in Australia, support resources are available. Here's a comprehensive guide to the services you can access:
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
National support |
1800RESPECT: This is the national domestic, family, and sexual violence counselling, information, and support service. Available 24/7, it's confidential and free. Phone: 1800 737 732 Website: 1800RESPECT |
White Ribbon Australia: Provides a directory of support services across different states and territories, offering assistance to anyone affected by domestic and family violence. Website: White Ribbon Support Services |
The Salvation Army Australia: Provides refuges, counselling, and support services for those experiencing family and domestic violence. |
Mission Australia: Offers services and support for individuals affected by domestic and family violence. |
New South Wales |
Domestic Violence Line: A statewide telephone crisis counselling and referral service for women and individuals identifying as female. Available 24/7. Phone: 1800 656 463 |
Australian Capital Territory |
Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS): Offers 24/7 support to all individuals affected by domestic and family violence, including those who use violence and abuse. Phone: 02 6280 0900 Website: DVCS |
Victoria |
Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre: Provides 24/7 crisis support and accommodation. Phone: 1800 015 188 Website: Safe Steps |
Queensland |
DVConnect Womensline: Offers 24/7 crisis support, counselling, and refuge assistance. Phone: 1800 811 811 Website: DVConnect |
South Australia |
Domestic Violence Crisis Line: Provides confidential support and counselling. Phone: 1800 800 098 Website: SA Health Domestic Violence |
Western Australia |
Women's Domestic Violence Helpline: Offers 24/7 support, including counselling and refuge referrals. Phone: 1800 007 339 Website: WA Government - Family and Domestic Violence Support |
Tasmania |
Family Violence Response and Referral Line: Provides 24/7 counselling and support. Phone: 1800 633 937 |
Northern Territory |
Domestic Violence Counselling Service: Offers support and counselling services. Phone: 1800 019 116 Website: NT Government - Domestic and Family Violence Support |
A final message from SEAOAK's Founder & Chief Executive Officer
This International Women’s Day let’s not only raise awareness but also uplift those who have survived and are rebuilding. Let’s celebrate the resilience of every woman who has ever been told she wasn’t enough but chose to believe otherwise. Let’s honour those who have turned their pain into power, their fear into fuel, and their past into purpose.
This International Women’s Day let’s use our voices to break the silence and fight for a future where no woman has to live in fear.
Your past does not define you, but your future is yours to shape.
Ebony
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