Support for family violence survivors
Support for family violence survivors
If emergency accommodation or support is needed, contact Safe Steps, which is Victoria’s 24/7 family violence response centre, or the national 24/7 1800 RESPECT line (see ‘Contacts’ at the end of this chapter).
There are refuges and shelters that assist women and children who are escaping violence. They provide free, safe and secure short-term accommodation, advice and counselling, access to legal assistance, help in applying for Centrelink benefits, and assistance in seeking work and childcare. Women’s refuges are available to all women in need (e.g. regardless of their financial situation, or whether they are married or have children). Refuges and shelters can be contacted through Safe Steps. Also, women can seek priority housing through the DFFH or their local council.
If you have experienced family violence and have no independent income, contact Centrelink and ask what benefits are available. For example, there is a crisis payment that is available for people who are experiencing severe financial hardship or extreme circumstances, such as family violence.
