16/12/2025
Home for Christmas, but not always safe...
The festive season is often painted as joyful, warm and full of connection.
But for many women and children, Christmas and New Year are among the most dangerous times of the year.
Across Australia, evidence shows family and domestic violence spikes during the so-called βsilly seasonβ.
Behind closed doors, the holidays can bring fear, not peace.
Take a moment to consider those in the most dangerous of places this Christmas.
Their homes.
As you get ready for your festive season, think about:
π Donating to food banks, community pantries, and food insecurity organisations
π§Έ Getting your donations (especially things that can be regifted) into ops shops early
πΌ Encouraging your employer to gift time, money, or skills to not-for-profits who get busy at this time of year.
π If this season feels unsafe, youβre not alone.
Emergency & Immediate Danger
π 000 β Police, Ambulance or Fire (if you are in danger right now)
Police (Non-Urgent)
π Policelink β 131 444
24/7 Crisis Support & Counselling
π 1800 RESPECT β 1800 737 732
National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service (24/7, confidential)
π Lifeline β 13 11 14
24/7 crisis support and su***de prevention
Women & Domestic Violence Support
π DVConnect Womensline (QLD) β 1800 811 811
24/7 support, safety planning and referral
π DVConnect Mensline (QLD) β 1800 600 636
For Children & Young People
π Kids Helpline β 1800 55 1800
24/7 counselling for ages 5β25 (call, chat or text)
If it feels unsafe to call
β’ Try online chat services
β’ Clear your call history if needed
β’ Reach out from a trusted friendβs phone
π Help is always available. Abuse is never your fault.
Source: ABC News; Australian DFV reporting