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Domestic and Family Violence

Everyone has the fundamental right to feel safe and free from any form of abuse or violence, whether they live alone or with another person.

Charles Darwin University (CDU) is committed to supporting students experiencing domestic and family violence, helping them continue their studies while ensuring strict confidentiality and privacy.

If you are experiencing domestic and family violence (including physical, sexual, financial, verbal or emotional abuse by an immediate family member) or know someone who is, the following information may be helpful.

Definitions

Domestic violence

Domestic violence refers to acts of violence that occur in domestic settings between two or more people.

Family violence

Family violence is a broader term, that refers to violence between intimate partners and between family members. Family violence includes violent or threatening behavior or any other form that coerces or controls a family member to be fearful.

Coercive control

Coercive control is almost always an underpinning dynamic of family and domestic violence. Perpetrators exert power and dominance by using patterns of abusive behaviours over time that create fear and deny liberty and autonomy.

Behaviours

Violent behaviour

Is not limited to physical acts and can include:

  • Psychological or emotional violence
  • Sexual violence
  • Financial abuse
  • Spiritual abuse
  • Social abuse
  • Legal abuse
  • Reproductive abuse
  • Neglect
  • Stalking
  • Causing fear
  • Forcing you to behave in ways you don't want
  • Stopping you from living as you want
Recognising inappropriate behaviour

It is never okay for someone in a relationship to:

  • Threaten to harm you, your children, pets or people you care about
  • Intimidate you by following, harassing or refusing to leave you alone
  • Control your actions such as who you talk to and where you go
  • Cut you off from friends and family 
  • Prevent you from seeing a doctor
  • Control your money
  • Use the legal system to scare you
  • Force you to have sex or engage in any sexual activity against your will
  • Touch you in ways or places you don't want to be touched
  • Prevent you from making decisions about reproductive issues, such as whether or not to have a baby
  • Say they will hurt themselves if you try to leave
  • Share private photos or videos of you without your consent
  • Monitor your technological devices
  • Say and do things that make you feel scared or unsafe
  • Damage your home or your belongings 
  • Stop you from practicing your religion or cultural traditions
  • Physically harm you in any way

CDU Respect Now Always Support Fund

The CDU Respect Now Always Support Fund was established to provide immediate financial assistance to students who are survivors or victims of domestic violence. This fund aims to offer support during challenging times, allowing recipients to focus on their personal wellbeing. It is financed through the Student Emergency Fund which is open for donation by all. We thank those who have generously donated and enabled CDU to assist those in need.

The fund is open to all students and offers a one-time payment of $1,000. Recipients may use the funds at their discretion for essential needs such as accommodation, petrol, food or clothing. This flexibility ensures that the assistance can be tailored to each individual's unique circumstances.

This initiative aligns with CDU's commitment to fostering a safer and more supportive community for all. 

Confidentiality and privacy is a priority. Any information you provide will be accessed only by the CDU Student Support Team. The information related to bank account and email address will be provided to the advancement team to facilitate payment.

Apply for support

External Support Services

 

Immediate Crisis Response 

If you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance services.

000

1800RESPECT

24 hours to support people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, and abuse. Access confidential counselling and support.

 1800 737 732

Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Helpline

For anyone in Australia whose life has been impacted by domestic or family violence. Available 24/7.

1800 943 539

White Ribbon 

White Ribbon Australia is part of a global social movement working to eliminate gendered violence.

Support services within each state

 

CDU Student Support Services

 

CDU Wellbeing Support Line 

Available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance for emotional and mental distress.

Tel: 1300 933 393

SMS: 0488 884 144

CDU Counselling Service

To make an appointment with a CDU counsellor, please book an appointment online or visit CDU Counselling for more information.

Access & Inclusion

Coordinate services and support to assist students whose studies have been impacted by what you are experiencing.

 

 

 

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