This article contains references to domestic violence.
Australians struggling with domestic violence as relationships fray and tempers flare during the coronavirus lockdown will be supported by a new campaign.
Domestic violence services have warned of a spike in incidents as households grapple with the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.
Social Services Minister Anne Ruston launched the Help is Here campaign on Sunday with the aim of supporting those for which "home is not a safe place to be".
"We want all Australians to know, including those at risk of using violence, there is free and confidential help available at all hours, every day," she said.
Samantha Fredericks from MensLine Australia said the abnormal coronavirus situation could be creating added tensions at home.
"Men normally blow off steam by catching up with their mates at the pub and they can't do those sorts of things now," she said.
MensLine Australia is part of a new national push targeting domestic violence during the pandemic. Source: SBS News
"So in some instances it can become more of a pressure-cooker environment."
Ms Fredericks said the hidden toll of domestic violence during the lockdown might not be revealed for some time.
"When this has all returned to something approaching normal we are going to find there's a much bigger story than we understand even now."
Annabelle Daniel from Women's Community Shelters said women also had fewer opportunities to access their support networks.
1800RESPECT has noted a 20 per cent increase in calls, with 9 per cent directly related to the coronavirus situation. Source: SBS News
"Those opportunities to seek help and reach out to your support network are significantly reduced," she said.
The 1800RESPECT helpline has reported a 20 per cent surge in calls, with 9 per cent directly related to the coronavirus lockdown.
Melonie Sheehan from 1800RESPECT said a lot of those calls came at night.
"This is when people might feel safest to make contact with our service," she said.
"The person that they live with who uses violence might be asleep."
The campaign - which uses the tagline "tough times don't excuse tougher times at home" - is promoting the 1800RESPECT and the MensLine Australia national helplines.
“Support and advice is also available for family and friends of those experiencing domestic violence and abuse,” Ms Ruston said.
If you or someone you know is impacted by family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit . In an emergency, call 000.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.
Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store.
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