Abuse affects people from all walks of life. Abuse can be physical, emotional, verbal, social, sexual, neglect or financial exploitation.
Urgent situations
If you have a life-threatening or urgent situation, phone Triple Zero 000 (000) and ask for the police.
For non-urgent police attendance phone 131 444.
Family and domestic violence victims
Support and information:
- Call the Domestic Violence Crisis Line on 1800 800 098 for crisis counselling, support and referral to safe accommodation.
- 1800Respect - phone 1800 737 732 for Australia's national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service.
- Women's Information Service of South Australia - phone 8303 0590 or 1800 188 158.
- Call the Men's Referral Service on 1300 766 491 for men's family violence counselling, information and referral, or visit their website for further information and Live CHAT.
Elder abuse
Elder abuse is any deliberate or unintentional action, or lack of action, carried out by a person in a trusted relationship, which causes distress, harm or serious risk of harm to an older person, or loss or damage to property or assets. It is more likely to be carried out by a relative (eg domestic partner or spouse, or grandchild, friend, neighbour, or paid or unpaid carer.
Support and information:
- Stop elder abuse - SA Health
- Call the SA Abuse Prevention Phone Line on 1800 372 310 if you are concerned about yourself or someone you know who is at risk of, or experiencing, abuse by someone they should be able to trust.
Abuse in aged care homes
If you are concerned about the abuse of someone who lives in an aged care home phone the Complaints Investigation Scheme on 1800 550 552. All calls are confidential and you can remain anonymous.
Sexual assault or rape
- Yarrow Place - phone 8226 8777 or toll free 1800 817 421, after hours 8226 8787 for services for rape and sexual assault victims.
- 1800Respect - phone 1800 737 732 for Australia's national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service.
Mental health support
Beyond Blue provides information and help for a range of mental health issues. For a one-on-one confidential chat with a trained mental health professional call 1300 22 4636.
Emergency housing
If you need emergency housing, see our page on accessing services in emergency or crisis situations.
Legal advice
JusticeNet SA offers help to people who are financially disadvantaged. In some cases, they may be able to refer you to a solicitor who can represent you for free. Phone 8303 5005 or email info@justicenet.org.au.
For women seeking legal advice or information phone the Women's Legal Service on 1800 816 349.
