Help and support

Help and support services are available.

Legal support

If you were called to give evidence before the Commission of Inquiry as a member of the public affected by domestic and family violence, there are a number of existing services who you can contact for advice and information:

• Legal Aid Queensland (1800 957 957) is able to provide free legal advice, including by telephone.
• Women’s Legal Service Queensland (1800 957 957) is a specialist community legal centre that assists women in Queensland who may not qualify for Legal Aid and cannot afford a private lawyer. The Women’s Legal Service solicitors and social workers can provide advice on a range of family law and domestic violence matters, including arrangements for children, separation and divorce, property settlements, child support and child protection..
• Community Legal Centres Queensland (07 3392 0092) provide free information, legal assistance, referrals, and advocacy for vulnerable clients and communities facing legal problems. There are 34 centres across Queensland.

Domestic and family violence support services

If you or someone you know is experiencing or at risk of domestic, family or sexual violence, please contact:

• Triple Zero (000) and ask for Police—for anyone in immediate danger or fearing for their safety You can also contact the police online for non-urgent assistance.
• DVConnect Womensline—can help women and families who are experiencing domestic or family violence through assistance with safety planning, including crisis response for anyone at risk of experiencing harm. Call 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days per week).
• DVConnect Mensline—provide counselling and support for men experiencing or using domestic and family violence. Call 1800 600 636 (9am-midnight, 7 days per week).
• Sexual Assault Helpline—offers emotional support and referral pathways to anyone who has been impacted by sexual assault or abuse. Call 1800 010 120 (7.30am to 11.30pm, 7 days).
• 1800RESPECT—the national 24/7 counselling, information and support line for people impacted by family, domestic and sexual violence.
• Kids Helpline—provides online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Call 1800 551 800 (24 hours, 7 days).
• Lifeline Australia—provides all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 44 (24 hours, 7 days).