What your step dad is doing is against the law, and he should be punished for it.  I hope your mum finds the strength to follow up with the legal channels for the sake of you and your brother.  Stay strong, my prayers are with you.

Jodi

ashley--i agree.  you are a brave girl and clearly very resourceful by getting online to find the help you need.  i think you need a good friend right now.  do you know any older woman at school or in your neighborhood who seems smart and gutsy to you?  trust your heart on this one, and ask that person to hear your story and help you think of your next steps. 

you cannot go wrong by getting yourself in a safe place or by being really honest with someone you trust about this situation.  

what is your heart telling you to do?  i think you can trust yourself and trust, too, that by doing the right thing for yourself, in some significant way you are also helping your mom and brother. 

please keep us posted.

Sweetheart, as others have said, you are very brave. You've taken the first step in getting help by asking in here. What you need to do now is talk to someone who can do something...

* teacher or school counsellor

* police - they have officers who specialise in such things so can help you

* DOCS (Department of Community Services) - find their number under Government listings in the phone book

Good luck, honey

You are so strong.  Only 17 and trying to help ur Mom and little brother.  if you go to the police , i am sure you will get help, but at the same time you should seek help from your Dad.  I am sure he will help all 3 of you.  You are a brave girl. 
                             Good Luck !

Please check your messages. I'm sending you an invite to a hidden private group on Minti for people in exactly your situation. Please accept the invite and you will be able to talk about it all and get support and practical advice from people who will keep everything you say in total confidence. they have all been in similar situations themselves, survived, and are now helping others. Hopefully we can help you too.

Cheers, DA.

http://www.australiasaysno.gov.au/gettinghelp/index.htm

Check this web site it has more info.

You poor girl.  Let me say firstly that you are really brave to try and protect your mum and little brother.  This is not right and not fair to any of you what your step-dad is doing.  You have taken the first step.  My first reaction is, get out but i understand that's easier said than done.

Can you talk to your mum about whats going on?  There are some services in the phone book and online you can look up for advice - Domestic and Family Violence Freecall 1800 811 811 and Kids Help Line 1800 55 1800 www.kidshelp.com.au .  Good Luck and i hope this was of some help to you.

Go to the police about this. Get your mum to go with you, and get her to show the police the bruises if there is any, and get a court order on him to stay away. Can't remember what it is called right  now, and someone else will know what i'm talking about, and it's where your step dad can't come anywhere near your house that your mum, your self and little brother is living. Abuse shouldn't be done at all. He's got no right to do what he's doing.

Confidential Helpline

Anyone experiencing violence can call the 24-hour Confidential Helpline on 1800 200 526. When you call the helpline you can have a confidential discussion with an experienced counsellor.

Emergency Situation

For emergency situations that require immediate and urgent assistance call 000.

National Disability Abuse and Neglect Helpline

The National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline on 1800 880 052, is an Australia-wide telephone hotline for reporting abuse and neglect of people with disabilities. 1800 301 130 (TTY), 1800 555 677 (NRS) and 131 450 (TIS).

Young People

For young people, the 24 hour Kids Help Line may be a preferred choice on 1800 551 800.

Translating and Interpreting Service

If you do not speak English well and you wish to talk with a counsellor, call the Translating and Interpreting Service 13 14 50 and ask them to contact the Helpline for you.

Hearing Impaired

Callers who are deaf or have a hearing impairment may call through the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and quote 1800 200 526.

Try One of These