Information in your language
We have developed a document with information on domestic and family violence and your visa. This document is available in multiple languages.
Your visa checklist
There are some important things you can do to stay safe and ensure you have a valid visa.
We have developed a checklist that can help. You can use the checklist to help as part of safety planning too.
The checklist is available in multiple languages.
Support for temporary visa holders
For a full list of counselling services, legal services, financial help and other service providers available in each state and territory, see
where to get help.
If you are a temporary visa holder, you can contact our specialist Domestic and Family Violence Support team using our
online contact form. Service providers who support temporary visa holders experiencing domestic and family violence can also contact us. This includes:
- legal
- specialist migration
- community organisations.
Once we have received your online form, a Visa Support Officer will contact you to discuss your situation.
We also encourage you to seek independent immigration assistance.
Telling us about domestic and family violence
You have a right to a safe environment in Australia. The Department of Home Affairs is here to help you take steps towards safety. We will work with you to resolve your immigration matters under the migration law framework.
Regardless of your visa status, you can contact us to discuss your situation.
There are different ways you can contact us depending on your situation.
Depending on the visa you hold, you may be eligible for the
family violence provisions. If you make a claim for the provisions, we will contact you to discuss your situation.
If you are not eligible for the family violence provisions and you have an ongoing visa application, you can tell us online if
your situation has changed.
You can also:
We will not refer the matter to the police, unless:
- there is an immediate threat to your life
- you are at immediate risk of harm, or
- it is required due to mandatory child reporting obligations.
Visa cancellations
Only the minister or a delegated officer has the power to refuse or cancel a person’s visa.
A person who commits domestic and family violence cannot cancel your visa. We use the term ‘perpetrator’ to refer to this person.
If you are the perpetrator of domestic and family violence, we may refuse or cancel your visa.
For more information, see Cancelling a visa.
We do not encourage you to stay in violent or dangerous relationships under any circumstance. This includes to get a visa outcome.
We understand that seeking help can be difficult. If you are experiencing domestic and family violence, support is here for you. We strongly encourage you to contact the police or
1800RESPECT.
