The Area News with Linking Communities Network (LCN) will be detailing what to look out for and where to get help as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
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"If we can all change the conversation, we can change the culture that allows family violence and violence against women to happen in the first place," LCN deputy CEO Kirrilly Salvestro says.
What is stalking?
Stalking happens when someone repeatedly harasses you with unwanted contact or attention.
The behaviour is often relentless and can make you feel like you can't escape.
Sometimes other types of abuse are going on at the same time.
Stalking can involve a range of behaviour that doesn't stop when you ask.
Stalking forms
The harassment may come in the form of repeated emails or social media messages. Repeated phone calls, text and voicemail messages.
The person following you to or from your home, workplace, or social activities Notes left at your home, workplace or on your car. Unwanted flowers or gifts sent to your home.
Getting information about you through online searches, the public records, or going through your rubbish.
Hiring a private investigator to follow you, or discover information about you. The person showing up uninvited at your home, work or school.
The person using social media to track you, bully or intimidate you, or bother you with unwanted attention.
The person showing up at the same places as you when there is no reason for them to be there.
The behaviour may start out seeming friendly but get angrier or even violent over time. Like many other forms of violence, stalking is about control.
It scares you into changing your routine and behaviour and stops you from feeling safe.
Stalking can be a form of domestic or family violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking it is OK to ask for help.
READ MORE
Who stalks?
Stalking can be perpetrated by strangers or people you barely know. It can also happen in any close familial or friendship-based relationship.
No-one of these people has the right to scare and control you with unwanted attention.
Getting help
- If you are in immediate danger, call 000
- Griffith Police Station: 6969 4299
- Legal Aid NSW: 1300 888 529
- Victims Services NSW: 1800 633 063
- Translating, Interpreting Service: 131 450
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