24/7 HELPLINE: 1800 123 456
About our organisation
Who We Are
STOP DV is an independent, not-for-profit initiative focused on helping people navigate domestic and family violence with greater understanding and confidence.
We work alongside existing support services by:
Providing clear, accessible information when things feel confusing or overwhelming.
Helping people understand what support options exist and how to access them safely.
Supporting individuals, families and communities without judgement or pressure.
Complementing (not replacing) crisis and emergency services.
STOP DV has been designed with care, privacy and inclusivity at its core, recognising that every situation is different and that support needs to be approached with sensitivity and respect.
Why STOP DV exists
Domestic and family violence can affect anyone, but understanding what to do, or where to begin, is often one of the hardest parts.
Many people experience uncertainty long before they seek help.
They may be unsure whether their situation qualifies as abuse, worried about consequences or simply overwhelmed by the number of services and pathways available. For friends and family, knowing how to support someone safely can be just as unclear.
STOP DV
exists
to
bridge
the
gap.
We focus on making the first step clearer.
We offer calm, practical information that helps people understand their options and move forward safely, whether that means reaching out for support, having a conversation or taking time to consider what feels right.
What STOP DV does (and does not do)
STOP DV provides clear, accessible guidance to help people better understand their situation and the support options available to them.
What STOP DV does
- Explaining domestic and family violence in clear, practical terms.
- Helping people understand their rights, choices and possible next steps.
- Guiding users to appropriate support services and resources.
- Supporting early decision-making without pressure or judgement.
What STOP DV doesn't do
- Provide emergency or crisis response services.
- Replace police, legal, medical or specialist support organisations.
- Offer legal, medical or counselling advice.
- Tell people what decisions they should make.
Our approach
STOP DV is guided by the understanding that every experience of domestic and family violence is different, and that support must be approached with care, respect and sensitivity.
Our approach is grounded in the following principles:
Trauma-informed
We recognise the impact that fear, stress and past experiences can have on decision-making, and we aim to provide information in a way that feels safe, calm and manageable.
Non-judgemental
We do not make assumptions or tell people what they should do. Our role is to support understanding, not to direct outcomes.
Inclusive and respectful
STOP DV is intended to be accessible to people of all genders, cultures, backgrounds and communities.
Privacy-conscious
We prioritise discretion and safety, recognising that many people access information quietly and cautiously.
Clear and practical
We focus on plain language and clarity, avoiding jargon or complexity wherever possible.
Accessible to people of all genders, cultures, backgrounds and communities.
Who STOP DV supports
STOP DV recognises that experiences of domestic and family violence can affect people of all genders, ages, cultures and backgrounds. Our service is designed to support people across the community who are affected by domestic and family violence, in different ways and at different stages.
This includes:
People who are currently experiencing domestic or family violence.
People who are unsure whether their situation is abusive and want to better understand it.
People who have experienced abuse in the past and are seeking information or clarity.
Friends, family, colleagues or community members looking for guidance on how to support someone safely.
Your privacy and safety matter!
We understand that seeking information about domestic and family violence is not always easy, and that safety, privacy and discretion are essential. STOP DV has been designed to be accessed quietly and carefully. There is no requirement to share personal information, and no obligation to take any action after visiting the site. You remain in control of what you read, what you explore and what steps you choose to take.
If at any time you feel unsafe or need to leave the site quickly, you can use the quick exit option available throughout the website.
Get Support Now
Choose the path that best matches your situation. Support is available.
I Need Help for Myself
Information and support if you’re experiencing family or domestic violence.
I'm Supporting Someone Else
Guidance for friends, family and colleagues who want to help safely and respectfully.
I Want to Understand Safety Planning
Steps you can take to increase safety and prepare for different situations.
I’m Worried About my Behaviour
Guidance for people who want to take responsibility for their behaviour and make positive change.
Taking the next step
If you’ve found yourself here, you don’t need to have everything figured out.
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, trying to help someone else or simply looking for information, STOP DV is here to help you understand what options are available and what you might consider next, at your own pace.