Supporting Women on Temporary Visas Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence with Vanessa Burn

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we are joined by Vanessa Burn, Head of the Migration Law Practice at Women's Legal Centre ACT, to explore how domestic and family violence intersects with Australia's migration system. Vanessa shares how women on temporary visas are particularly vulnerable to coercive control and manipulation, often fearing deportation or losing their children if they seek help. We unpack myths around migration, visas, and legal rights, including the misconception that you must be a citizen to access services like Women's Legal Service Queensland or Australia’s network of Community Legal Centres. Vanessa also explains the critical importance of early legal advice, the expansion of family violence provisions across more visa types, and the urgent need for system reform, including a dedicated family violence visa pathway.

If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You can also visit the Department of Home Affairs Family Violence and Migration for more information on your rights. You are not alone. DISCLAIMER 

This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice. The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances.  The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).

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