Given the covert nature of violence against women, and the possibly of even greater secrecy within migrant communities, it is not surprising that there has been little empirical evidence gathered to substantiate these concerns. The research reported here was conducted in order to shed more light on this important subject. Information was gathered both from survivors of domestic violence and a variety of practitioners in contact with them. Two surveys were used to obtain the backgrounds and experiences of almost 800 victims, including overseas born and Australian born women. Survivors and practitioners have conveyed a picture of the special issues and experiences that immigrant women may encounter which doubly jeopardise their right to a life safe from violence. Their isolation emerges as the key to understanding a great deal about what distinguishes their victimisation.