The end of a relationship is a very difficult time for most people. When there has been abuse in the relationship this time can be particularly hard and even, in some cases, dangerous. People do not have to be living together for abuse to be present in their relationship. Children are also impacted by abuse between their parents and in some cases may be the target of abuse. Accessing information about abusive behaviour, available support from the community and legal responses to relationship violence may help you to stay safe.
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Abusive Behaviour
Many different terms may be used to describe abuse between partners, including family violence or domestic violence. Regardless of the words used it is important to understand what types of behaviour are abusive. Identifying abusive behaviours is the first step towards dealing with them.
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Child Abuse and Neglect
Child abuse and neglect involve behaviour that is harmful to the child. Information about child abuse and neglect, and available resources, can help parents protect their children.
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Leaving an Abusive Relationship
Individuals who are leaving abusive relationships face many issues in addition to the issues that all separating couples face. Help is available from the community. Our laws also provide some help for people in these situations.
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Abuse and Family Law Issues
When any relationship ends decisions about how children will be looked after and supported, whether one spouse will pay support to the other, and how to deal with family property need to be made. However, individuals leaving abusive relationships face additional challenges and issues that may require a different approach.
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Child Protection
There are laws to protect children who are at-risk because of neglect or abuse. If a child is in need of protection a number of steps can be taken. Agencies involved in child protection work with families to ensure the child’s safety.