Understanding Abuse: The First Step to Prevention

Domestic, family, and sexual violence (DFSV) affects people across all communities and cultures. Not just physical, it can take many forms, often hidden behind closed doors or masked by fear and shame. At GTCF, we are firm advocates of fighting against violence and believe that awareness is the first step toward prevention and healing.

What Is Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence?

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV) refers to any behaviour used to intimidate, control, or harm another person. It can happen in intimate relationships, within families, or in broader social settings.

From 2021 to 2022 1 in 6 women and 1 in 18 men had experienced abuse by a current or previous partner.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women experience high rates of violence, and are 31 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence-related assaults.

1. Physical Abuse

Hitting, slapping, choking, or any form of physical harm.

2. Verbal Abuse

Yelling, name-calling, degrading language, or constant criticism.

3. Emotional & Psychological Abuse

Gaslighting, intimidation, threats, or making someone feel worthless or afraid.

4. Financial Abuse

Controlling access to money, preventing someone from working or studying, or creating financial dependence. In 2020, Australian victims lost an estimated $5.7 billion from financial abuse in comparison to $851 Million lost to scams that same year

5. Social Abuse

Isolating someone from friends and family, monitoring their movements or communication.

6. Sexual Abuse

Any sexual activity without consent, including coercion, assault, or exploitation.

7. Digital Abuse

Cyberbullying, stalking online, sharing private content without consent, or tracking someone’s location.

8. Spiritual Abuse

Mocking or restricting someone’s religious beliefs, or forcing religious practices against their will.

9. Visa Abuse

Using immigration status to control or threaten someone, such as hiding documents or spreading misinformation.

What You Can Do

Abuse is never the victim’s fault. By learning to recognise the signs and knowing how to respond, we can all play a role in creating safer, more supportive communities. Whether you’re a friend, neighbour, or community leader, your awareness could change someone’s life.

If you suspect someone is experiencing abuse:

• Be a calm, non-judgmental presence.
• Listen and believe them.
• Don’t push for details. Let them share at their own pace.
• Encourage them to seek help and connect with support services.
• Respect cultural and religious values, but never at the expense of safety.

Where to Get Help

At GTCF, we understand that cultural and linguistic barriers can make it difficult to seek help. That’s why we offer community support, confidential appointments, and crisis assistance tailored to your needs. Whether you're navigating a sensitive situation or simply need someone to talk to, our team is here to support you with compassion, respect, and cultural understanding. 

Come visit us for a confidential appointment or reach out to our Community Support Service:

rukiye.apaydin@gallipolimosque.org.au

If you or someone you know needs support, these services are here to help:

• 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 (24/7 counselling and support)
• NSW Domestic Violence Line – 1800 656 463
• NSW Sexual Violence Helpline – 1800 424 017
• Link2Home (Crisis Accommodation) – 1800 152 152
• Legal Aid NSW – 1300 888 529
• Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800
• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• AskIzzy – askizzy.org.au (directory of local services)