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This paper examines the nature and extent of help-seeking behaviour of female victims of domestic violence. A particular focus will be given to the question of whether female victims of domestic violence who have children are more likely to seek help. Previous research has examined the possible influence of children on victims' responses to intimate partner abuse. Two contrasting perceptions currently exist. Some studies reveal that having children may encourage a pro-help-seeking approach in order to protect their vulnerable children from direct or indirect victimisation. By contrast, legislative provisions in relation to child maltreatment may discourage female victims from seeking assistance to stop the abuse. Victims may fear having their children removed by public authorities when making the abusive environment known to agencies, law enforcement or other service providers, which may act as a disincentive in the overall process of seeking assistance. Using data from a national community sample in Australia (n=6700) and building on past research, this study explores factors relating to the role of children in the process of seeking help. ..PAT.-Unpublished Manuscript [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]