Controlling Behaviour

Sometimes people might try and control what you do, where you go or who you see.

This sort of control is generally considered to be a form of emotional abuse. It is often a gradual process which will end up with you being isolated from your friends and family.

In a healthy, respectful relationship your partner will not try and control what you do, where you go, or who you see.

Controlling behaviour and emotional abuse are examples of family violence under the Family Law Act 1975.

If you are, or have been, in a controlling relationship, there are services who can help you.  If you have any questions, need assistance or a referral to an appropriate service, please check below for who to contact in your region.

Differences between states

Northern Territory

Please call the Central Australian Women’s Legal Service on 08 8952 4055 or 1800 684 055 if you need assistance or for referral to an appropriate service.

Depending on where you live, alternatively you could contact the Katherine Women’s Information and Legal Service on 08 8972 1712 or 1800 620 108 or the Top End Women’s Legal Service on 08 8982 3000 or 1800 234 441.

ACT

Please call Women’s Legal Centre ACT or the Domestic Violence Crisis Service if you need assistance or for a referral to an appropriate service.

Western Australia

Please call Women’s Legal Centre Western Australia on 08 9272 8800 or 1800 625 122 for legal advice and referrals.

NSW

You can call the Domestic Violence Line for help on 1800 656 463.This line operates 24/7 and provides counselling and referral to services, including refuges.

For legal advice you can call Women’s Legal Service NSW on 02 8745 6999 or 1800 810 784, Legal Aid on 1300 888 529, or South West Sydney Legal Centre on 02 9601 7777.

Victoria

You can also contact the Women’s Information and Referral Exchange (WIRE) if you need assistance or a referral to an appropriate service.

Please call Women’s Legal Service Victoria or Youth Law for legal advice and referrals.

South Australia

Please call Women’s Legal Service South Australia on 08 8221 5553 for legal advice and referrals.

Tasmania

Please call Women’s Legal Service Tasmania on 1800 682 468 if you need assistance or for a referral to an appropriate service.

Queensland

Please call Women’s Legal Service Queensland on 07 3392 0670 or 1800 677 278 (outside Brisbane) if you need assistance or for a referral to an appropriate service.