What is Domestic and Family Violence (DFV)?
Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) is a pattern of abusive behaviour in an intimate relationship or other type of family relationship, where one person assumes a position of power and control over the other, causing fear.
Different forms of DFV that are used to control another person can include physical, verbal, emotional, stalking, psychological, spiritual, financial and sexual abuse.
Hillsong’s Response to Domestic and Family Violence
At Hillsong, we believe every person is equal, is worthy of respect and has the right to live free from domestic and family violence.
As a community, it is important that we become more alert and aware of the signs of violence around us so that we can respond appropriately.
These are the key ways in which we are responding to DFV:
Raising Awareness: ensuring our church and the communities we are involved with are informed, sensitive and understanding of this issue.
Equipping: Providing DFV training and appropriate resources to Hillsong pastors, staff and volunteers so that they are equipped to respond to individuals and families impacted by DFV in an informed, sensitive and effective manner.
What the numbers say in Australia about DFV
In Australia, both women and men experience substantial levels of violence
(Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics. Personal safety, Australia, 2016. ABS cat. no. 4906.01. Canberra: ABS.)
Creating awareness and support for DFV
Coercive, controlling and violent behaviour toward another person is NEVER acceptable.
If you become aware of a DFV issue either in your own family or the family of someone you know, please do not ignore the signs. We encourage you to speak to a trained professional who will help you to understand the issue further and support you to respond.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call 000 or if you are in need of immediate support contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
Below are list of support services that you can access externally if you know someone or are being impacted personally by DFV. There is always hope and people can change if they take the right measures to seek help.
DOMESTIC & FAMILY VIOLENCE
AUSTRALIA WIDE SUPPORT SERVICES
For any person in immediate danger call 000
POLICE OR AMBULANCE
000
For international support services, please look up services in your country