No matter your visa. No matter your language. No matter where you came from. In Australia, you have the right to be safe — and the right to ask for help.
"If you call the police, immigration will deport you immediately."
Only the Minister of Home Affairs can cancel a visa — not your abuser, not police. The Australian Government has zero tolerance for DV against all visa holders.
"You'll lose your student visa if you leave this relationship."
Your student visa is yours — it is not controlled by your partner. You can leave and keep your visa. The Department of Home Affairs has a specialist DV support team.
"Nobody will believe you — you don't even speak English properly."
You have the legal right to a free interpreter (TIS National: 131 450) at any point — calling 000, speaking to police, at a hospital, or seeking legal help.
"There's no money to help you — you're on your own."
The Leaving Violence Program (from July 2025) provides up to $5,000 to eligible victim-survivors — including temporary visa holders — to help cover the cost of leaving safely.
All services are free, confidential, and available regardless of your visa status. You do not need to give your name.