Staying Home Leaving Violence

Leaving domestic or family violence is never a simple decision. For many women, choosing whether to stay in their home or leave safely can feel overwhelming. We work with victims, survivors and their children who are at high risk through comprehensive safety and risk assessments. For women who wish to remain in their homes, we provide a safety audit and can assist with recommendations for security upgrades. We support you to make your home and family safer while developing a personalised safety plan.

If you choose to leave, we assist with planning a safe exit and accessing emergency accommodation. This program supports you through separation and helps with legal and police matters. We provide information on Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs), support advocacy with police, and assist you through court and family law processes. We also help with Victim Services applications, accessing financial support, and connecting you with counselling and support groups – providing long-term support in the community where you live.

For more information:
P: 1800 324 924
E: info@catholiccaredbb.org.au

The way you have supported me has changed my life and given my children a far safer home. You are one of the only people who has believed me and believed in me.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What should I do if I am in immediate danger?

We encourage you to call 000 for Police assistance.

I am not Catholic, can I still access your service?

Yes, our service provides support to all women and children in the community on the Central Coast.

Where do I need to live to access your service?

Our funding allows us to support women and families living on the Central Coast only.

How long is the support period?

Our case management support period is 6 months.

Is support provided face-to-face or via phone?

Safety is our priority. We can meet either face-to-face or provide support via phone, depending on your safety needs. Face-to-face meetings can be in the community or if safe to do so, in your home.

How can you support me?

We provide support with safety planning, home safety auditing, police reporting, advocacy with other services, referrals to appropriate counselling and other support services, domestic family violence education, court processes, family law processes and support in accessing eligible financial support to assist with relocation and home safety upgrades.

Can you find housing for me?

We are not a housing service, however we can support in advocating with housing services and referring you to the right housing supports to assist in find safe and stable housing.

Can you provide legal advice or guidance pertaining to family law court?

We are not legal professionals, however if you are needing legal advice, we can refer you to, or provide information on available legal services.

How can I ensure my abuser won't find out that I'm seeking help, is it confidential?

We have strict confidentiality processes in place and will talk with you about practical safety strategies. We encourage you to call us from another phone if you have technological safety concerns such as tracking/monitoring.

Do you offer interpreters?

Yes, interpreter services can be accessed if required.

How does seeking help for domestic violence affect my immigration status?

In Australia, seeking help for domestic violence does not automatically impact a person’s immigration status. The Australian government recognises that individuals in abusive relationships may face unique challenges, and they have provisions in place to provide support and protection for victims of domestic violence, regardless of their immigration status. We can talk with you about specialist referrals and support available.

How long is the support period?

Our case management support period is based on the victim survivors needs.

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