Domestic and family violence initiatives
In recognition of the devastating impact domestic and family violence has on our community, domestic and family violence services are a major focus for DCJ. We are committed to reducing the effects of domestic and family violence by improving access to timely and appropriate support and crisis accommodation, and safe and affordable housing. The safety of women and children is most important to the work we do.
Improving access to safe housing
Domestic and family violence can lead to homelessness. DCJ is committed to reducing the risk of homelessness among people experiencing domestic and family violence by improving access to safe and affordable housing, and providing appropriate and timely housing assistance.
There are now more services across NSW catering for the specific needs of women who are victims of domestic and family violence. More than 12,070 women each year will be assisted by specialist homelessness services. Support to families, the majority of whom are women with children, has increased, with more than 18,050 family members receiving a service.
Increasing funding to combat domestic and family violence
More funding is being injected into the service system to make it stronger and increase the capacity of services catering for the special needs of women who are victims of domestic and family violence.
As part of the NSW Government’s $60 million initiative to combat domestic violence, we are investing $20 million over two years to boost the capacity of homelessness services providing responses, including women’s refuges, to women and children experiencing domestic and family violence.
This investment will help respond to increased demand and better assist women experiencing domestic and family violence by delivering expert 24/7 around the clock support and funding additional accommodation options.
Who to contact
Women escaping domestic violence can call Link2home on 1800 152 152, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, where they will be assessed and referred to the most appropriate service. If a refuge bed is not available, they can be provided with temporary accommodation while other solutions are sought. Women can also call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 656 463 for counselling, information and referral to other services.
Providing refuge and accommodation for women is only one response, which is why specialist homelessness services offer a greater range of prevention, early intervention and support responses.
Initiatives to keep people safe
Many DCJ initiatives support women and children experiencing domestic and family violence.
Start Safely
Start Safely is a subsidy that provides short-to-medium term financial support to people who are experiencing domestic and family violence. The Start Safely subsidy helps people secure private rental accommodation so they don’t have to return to the violent situation.
Staying Home, Leaving Violence (SHLV)
Staying home, leaving violence is a DCJ initiative that enables women and children experiencing domestic and family violence to remain in their home, if they choose and where it is safe to do so.
The range of support includes outreach support, risk assessments, safety planning, security modifications and equipment, court support, casework and advocacy.
Housing Pathways
The Housing Pathways website and the local Housing office can provide more information about the types of help available and how to access them.