Founder and Director
Criminal Lawyer
Carmella Acciarito Principal
Juris Doctor (JD) Doctor of Law
Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court and High Court of Australia
What is your first point of call?
The first point of call for a victim of domestic and family violence is to call emergency services if they are in immediate danger. You should call triple zero (000) if:
- someone is injured or in need of urgent medical help.
- your life or property is being threatened or in danger.
- you have witnessed a serious accident or crime.
When you call triple zero (000), an operator will ask for your:
- phone number
- exact address or location.
If you cannot speak English an operator will organise a translator for you.
In Victoria, this means dialling Triple Zero (000) for the Victoria Police Family Violence Response Team to act.
Contact Services
In Victoria, there are many services available to support victims of domestic and family violence. These services are designed to provide immediate and long-term support to those affected by domestic and family violence. If you or someone you know needs help, reaching out to one of these services can be the first step forward towards safety and recovery.
Key System Services
1. Centrelink Crisis Payment: Provides financial support for individuals experiencing severe hardship due to family violence. Up to four payments per year.
2. Homes Victoria: Offers priority housing and crisis accommodation for those escaping family violence.
3. Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre: Provides 24/7 crisis support, information, and accommodation.
4. The Orange Door: Assists with family violence support and children’s wellbeing. More info on their website.
5. Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 24/7 crisis counselling for sexual assault survivors.
6. Men’s Referral Service: Confidential support for those at risk of using family violence.
7. Victims of Crime Helpline: Support for adult male victims of family violence and violent crime.