There is no one general statement of Victorian government policy that underlies the existence of women's services. Instead, various policy and program statements provide a context within which services for female violence victims may be located. Specific services include refuges, information and referral, sexual assault centers, outreach support services, and self-help groups. The philosophy, practice, and management of women's services are discussed, as well as service coordination, service gaps, crisis intervention, service access in culturally diverse communities, services for women in rural and isolated areas, and service availability. Generalist support services for family violence victims are examined, including medical practitioners and hospitals, the police, and the church. Recommendations to improve the delivery of services to women are offered that recognize the multifaceted nature of family violence and its significance as a community issue. Footnotes