Referrals
The Emma House Legal Program at The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre (The SAFV Centre) provides free or low-cost legal support to women experiencing family violence in South West Victoria.
At the moment, due to recent staff changes, we are not able to take on new referrals for legal support. We are actively recruiting new team members and will let you know as soon as we can start accepting referrals again.
In the meantime, if you need legal support, you can call VLA Legal Help on 1300 792 387 or visit www.fclc.org.au/find_a_community_legal_centre to find another CLC that may be able to assist.
We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding while we work to rebuild our team.
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. This helpline is available Monday – Friday, from 8am – 6pm (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 website at any time, or alternatively you can visit your local police station for assistance.
Duty Lawyer Service
The duty lawyer service will continue for Family Violence Intervention Order matters at the Portland, Hamilton and Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court.
If you require duty lawyer assistance and you are attending court in person, you can request the Emma House Duty Lawyer at the court registry desk on the day. If you are appearing remotely, please contact the relevant court on the below numbers to request this and the Emma House Duty Lawyer:
- Portland Magistrates’ Court: (03) 9063 0119
- Hamilton Magistrates’ Court: (03) 9087 6114
- Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court: (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.
