Witness to War is a national multilingual telephone hotline for people affected by overseas conflicts. People can feel the impact in different ways, and may experience health, social and practical issues. The helpline is for individuals, families and communities who are distressed about overseas events, have friends and family abroad, need someone to talk to, or need help finding information about useful services and support.
Who can call the telephone hotline?
Anyone across Australia can call. There is no restriction on visa type, date of arrival to Australia, country of birth, or age.
How do I speak to someone in my own language?
When you call someone who will ask you what language you would like to speak, and they will then transfer you to a bicultural worker who speaks your language. If there is no-one that speaks your language at that time, we will arrange a professional telephone interpreter.
Who will I speak with?
Our Bicultural Client Support Workers speak many languages including Arabic, Hebrew, Dari, Ukrainian and English. They are friendly, caring and there to listen to you. Many of our staff will have an understanding of your culture and awareness of some of the issues that you may face.
How can Witness to War help me?
A bicultural worker will ask you about your concerns and offer information and practical support. The type of support you receive varies and is based on your needs. It might simply be someone to talk to, share your concerns and worries, or information about services or community organisations that can help you with your specific issues. For example, a bicultural worker might share contact details and phone numbers of various services that can support you and help you deal with the difficulties that you and your family members are experiencing. Witness to War will continue to provide assistance until you are linked in and connected to the relevant service.
How and when to call?
Call 1800 845 198, Monday to Friday.
ACT/NSW/VIC/TAS 10am – 7pm
South Australia 9:30am – 6:30pm
Queensland 9am – 6pm
Northern Territory 8:30am – 5:30pm
Western Australia 7am – 4pm
If you need to speak with someone outside of these hours, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36 and ask for an interpreter. If you or someone you know is in danger and needs help immediately call 000, or contact the appropriate specialist crisis intervention services.
How long will the call be?
This will depend on your reason for calling. Our staff will be guided by you and will help point you in the right direction.
Can I talk to someone face-to-face?
This is a telephone based service only. If you prefer to speak with someone in person, we can help link you in with other services that can provide this support.
Will my information be kept private?
Our services are confidential. You do not need to provide identifying details. Your conversation between you and our staff will be kept private. If you would like a follow-up care, we may record the details to provide appropriate support when necessary. We will not share information about you or this call without your consent unless we have concerns that you or someone else is at risk.
How much will it cost?
There is no cost. Our services are free of charge.