Temporary Closure
The Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre (The SAFV Centre): Emma House Legal Program, will be closing temporarily on Friday 3 October 2025 due to staffing changes. We are currently unable to accept referrals until further notice. A list of alternate supports are detailed below dependant on your legal matter. Should you have any concerns regarding our closure, please contact The SAFV Centre on (03) 5222 4318.
Triple Zero (000)
If you are in immediate danger call Victorian Police on Triple Zero (000).
Urgent Legal Support
If you require urgent legal assistance, please contact Victoria Legal Aid on 1300 792 387 (note this is not available on public holidays).
Family Violence Intervention Order’s
If you require a Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO), you can apply for this online through the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria at any time, via https://fvio.mcv.vic.gov.au/ or alternatively you can visit your local police station for assistance.
Duty Lawyer Service
We will continue to provide a duty lawyer service for Family Violence Intervention Order matters at the Portland, Hamilton and Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court. If you require duty lawyer assistance please contact the relevant court on the below numbers to request this, or if you are attending court in person you can request the Emma House Duty Lawyer at the registry desk on the day. For Portland Magistrates’ Court call (03) 9063 0119, for the Hamilton Magistrates’ Court call (03) 9087 6114 or for the Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court call (03) 9087 5729.
Legal Rights and Entitlements
If you need help to understand your legal rights and entitlements, you can contact the Safe Steps response line 24/7 by calling 1800 015 188.
