Housing and other support if you're experiencing family or domestic violence
Learn what help is available for those in need of accommodation.
Start Safely
The Department of Communities & Justice operates a housing rental assistance service called Start Safely.
It is for people who do not have a stable and secure place to live due to domestic or family violence. Start Safely can be used to:
- help find a safe and affordable place to rent
- pay some of your rent for up to 3 years
- assist with education and employment options.
Find out more about Start Safely at Communities & Justice.
Shelters and other support
| Organisation | Services | Get in touch |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Violence Line | 24/7 counselling and referrals to women experiencing domestic and family violence | 1800 656 463 |
| 1800RESPECT | 24 hour counselling and support service | 1800 737 732 |
| Women's Legal Service NSW | Helps women experiencing violence with their legal rights and access to justice | 1800 810 784 |
| NSW Sexual Violence Helpline | 24/7 advice and counselling for people of all genders whose lives have been impacted by sexual assault, recently or in the past | 1800 424 017 |
Learn about housing assistance if you're experiencing family and domestic violence at Communities & Justice.
Prepare your documents before an emergency
Some crises can happen without warning. Just as you may have a bag of valuables packed and ready to take with you, it's also important to consider how best to ensure important documents such as birth or marriage certificates stay safe, too.
Having a digital storage solution for storing copies of your documents is one way to ensure they are safe, secure and can be accessed when you need them.
Find out about the digital options available and what to consider including when preparing your documents before an emergency.