Understanding Abuse
What is Domestic & Family Violence?
Domestic and family violence (DFV) is a pattern of behaviour used by one person to control and dominate another in a relationship or family setting. It is not just physical violence — it can take many forms, and all of them are serious. Abuse is never the victim's fault.
Physical Abuse
Any intentional act causing injury or trauma to another person through bodily contact — hitting, pushing, restraining, or using objects as weapons.
Emotional & Psychological Abuse
Behaviour that causes emotional harm — constant criticism, humiliation, threats, isolation from friends and family, and controlling behaviour.
Coercive Control
A pattern of behaviour that seeks to take away the victim's liberty or freedom. It can include monitoring, financial control, isolation, and threats.
Financial Abuse
Controlling access to money, preventing employment, running up debt in your name, or taking your income without consent.
Technology-Facilitated Abuse
Using technology to monitor, stalk, harass, or control — including tracking devices, spyware, monitoring social media, and non-consensual sharing of images.
Sexual Abuse
Any sexual act or behaviour that is unwanted or non-consensual, including within a relationship or marriage.
Spotlight
Understanding Coercive Control
Coercive control is one of the most dangerous and misunderstood forms of domestic abuse. It is a pattern of behaviour — not a single incident — that strips a person of their independence, dignity, and sense of self.
Our founder Tess Jasmine has completed a micro-credential unit through the University of Western Australia on 'The Complexities of Coercive Control' and brings this knowledge to our workshops and support services.
Coercive control is now recognised as a criminal offence in Western Australia. If you are experiencing this, you have legal options.
Warning Signs in a Relationship
- Extreme jealousy or possessiveness
- Controlling what you wear, who you see, or where you go
- Checking your phone, emails, or social media without permission
- Putting you down or humiliating you in front of others
- Blaming you for their behaviour or making you feel 'crazy'
- Threatening to hurt you, your children, or themselves
- Financial control — limiting your access to money
- Isolating you from friends and family
- Minimising, denying, or making excuses for abusive behaviour
- Rapid escalation of the relationship (love bombing)
Our Community
DV in the Pilbara — A Localised Reality
The Pilbara region of Western Australia faces unique challenges when it comes to domestic violence. Geographic isolation, a predominantly male-dominated FIFO work environment, limited specialist services, and cultural factors all compound the difficulties faced by individuals experiencing abuse.
Many women in the Pilbara feel they have nowhere to turn — services are far away, community is small, and fear of judgment is real. Connect & Empower Karratha exists to bridge this gap by providing localised, accessible, and confidential support.
We offer education, one-on-one support, and referrals to appropriate services. You do not need to be in immediate danger to reach out. If something doesn't feel right, we want to hear from you.
Taking Action
Steps Toward Safety
There is no single right way to leave or address an abusive situation. These steps are a guide — your safety always comes first.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Your feelings are valid. You are not overreacting. Abuse often escalates slowly — this is intentional.
Reach Out Confidentially
Contact us, a trusted friend, or a support service. You do not have to have everything figured out. Just one conversation can be the first step.
Create a Safety Plan
A safety plan helps you prepare for different scenarios. This includes knowing who to call, where to go, and what to take if you need to leave quickly.
Document What's Happening
If it is safe to do so, keep a private record of incidents — dates, what happened, and any witnesses. Store it somewhere your abuser cannot access.
Know Your Legal Rights
You have the right to apply for a Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO) in WA. Legal aid is available. You do not need a lawyer to apply.
You Are Not Alone
Leaving is the most dangerous time. Please reach out for support before, during, and after. We are here for you every step of the way.
Get Help Now
Support Services & Resources
These services are available to you right now. All are free and confidential.
1800RESPECT
24/7National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling service
1800 737 732Anglicare WA — Pilbara
Business hoursFamily support and counselling services in the Pilbara region
(08) 9185 1111For Friends & Family
Supporting Someone Experiencing Abuse
Listen Without Judgment
Believe them. Don't minimise what they're going through or push them to leave before they're ready. Leaving is the most dangerous time.
Offer Practical Help
Ask what they need rather than assuming. This might be a safe place to stay, help with children, or simply someone to talk to.
Educate Yourself
Understanding the dynamics of abuse — including why people stay — helps you provide better support. We offer workshops on this topic.
From Our Shop
Evidence Collection Resources
These practical documents have been created to help you record and organise evidence safely. They are available in our shop.
Collecting Evidence Document
A structured document to help you safely record incidents of domestic violence or abuse — dates, descriptions, and details that may be needed for legal or support purposes.
View in ShopEvidence Collection for Family Court
Specifically designed for family court proceedings, this document helps you organise and present evidence in a clear, structured format to support your case.
View in Shop