Are You Safe At Home? Day is on Monday 11 May 2026. It encourages people to speak up and initiate meaningful conversations with someone who may be experiencing family violence by asking a simple, powerful question: ‘Are you safe at home?’

This May we’re sharing resources and information from Safe and Equal to help break down the fear and stigma associated with talking about family violence. Safe and Equal is the peak body for Victorian organisations that specialise in family and gender-based violence.

If you’re worried about someone you know, it can be hard to know what to do, or what to say. But trust your gut. If something feels wrong, chances are you’re right. 

Many people worry they’ll be interfering, but when approached with care, this conversation can make a real difference.

Where to start

Just by asking, listening and believing you can make a huge difference.

1. Ask “Are you safe at home?”
2. Listen to what they say without judgement – let them know you’re here if they aren’t ready to talk about it.
3. Believe what they tell you and offer support.

Download the Are You Safe At Home? conversation guide to help you approach this conversation.

Types of family violence

Because family violence often happens out of sight, it can be difficult to recognise the signs. It can also be hard for people experiencing abuse to reach out for help.

Types of family violence can include: 

• controlling behaviours, such as deciding who you can see or what you do
• stalking behaviours, such as following you or monitoring your online activity
• verbal abuse, such as put downs, threats and intimidation
• physical assault, such as pushing, slapping, punching or choking
• sexual assault, such as manipulating or forcing you to do sexual things (even if you are married)
• emotional abuse, such as lowering your self-esteem
• social abuse, such as isolating you from family and friends
• economic abuse, such as controlling access to money
• spiritual abuse, such as preventing you from practising your spiritual beliefs
• threats to harm you, your children or pets
• threats of self-harm or actually self-harming, and saying you are responsible.

Family violence in Boroondara

In the year ending December 2025, 1,090 family violence incidents were reported in Boroondara (source: Crime Statistics Agency Victoria).

While physical violence may be the most visible form, other forms of violence and abuse can be equally harmful. Women and children are most commonly the victims of family violence. 

Family violence is preventable, and we all have a part to play to create a community free from violence where everyone is safe, equal and respected. 

Get help if you are experiencing violence 

• If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000) and ask for the police.
• Safe Steps is Victoria’s 24/7 family violence response centre. You can get in touch with them any time of the day or night, every day of the year. Call 1800 015 188 or visit the Safe Steps website.
• For additional support, services or advice, please visit our family violence page.
• To learn more about Are You Safe At Home? Day, visit the Are You Safe At Home website.