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10 facts about our Pets In Crisis Program
1st July, 2019 | by DVConnect
10 facts about our Pets In Crisis Program
1. The Pets In Crisis Program exists to care for pets whose families are escaping domestic violence.
2. A lot of refuges do not accept pets, so many people decide to stay in a domestic violence situation for fear of what might happen to their pet if they leave. Sadly, our counsellors regularly speak to people whose intimate partners use violence or threats of it towards their pets – in order to frighten and control them into staying.
3. Established in 2005, the Program is a collaboration between DVConnect and the RSPCA Queensland.
4. Each pet is given safe accommodation, food, and in most cases veterinary care.
5. The Program cares for almost 300 pets each year.
6. BUT, last financial year we were forced to turn away 2-3 pets every week because we don’t have enough funding or safe accommodation to care for them.
7. Pets can stay in the program for up to 28 days.
8. Any pet is accepted, provided there is a suitable place for them to be cared for.
9. Each pet is given a thorough health check by an RSPCA veterinarian. Sadly though, a lot of pets from domestic violence situations haven’t received the medical care they should have in their lives. This means more vet care is needed, which means more costs.
10. The minimum cost to operate the Pets In Crisis Program is $150,000. This increases when the number of animals needing help increases.
11. To access this program, you must speak with the DVConnect team. Please call anytime on 1800 811 811, they are available to chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you, or someone you know is experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, DVConnect can help you find a pathway to safety, away from violence. The DVConnect helplines are:
- Womensline 1800 811 811, available 24/7
- Mensline 1800 600 636 available from 9am – midnight, 7 days
- Sexual Assault Helpline 1800 010 120, available from 7.30am – 11.30pm, 7 days.
- For more visit www.DVConnect.org.
For more, contact
Other ways to help
14th January, 2022 | by DVConnect
By supporting the work of DVConnect, you give every person who asks us for help, a path to safety. There are many ways you can support our work no matter who you are. Find a way from the list below:
Show your support, it's free
If someone tells you they have experienced violence or abuse, please believe and support them.
Share our social media posts to help spread the word that violence and abuse is never acceptable. Sharing a post will also tell your friends that you are a safe person and there are specialist services like DVConnect that can help. You never know when someone on your friend’s list may need it.
Look out for signs of non-physical abuse and know where you can refer a family member or friend for support.
Download the Be there app to recognise abuse, shape your approach and support the person you care about in a way that is safe for everyone.
Call DVConnect for advice to support someone you care about who may be experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence.
Don’t give people who use violence a free pass. Speak out if you hear excuses for violence or victim blaming.
Challenge stereotypes and call out sexist attitudes like ‘jokes’ that are derogatory towards females.
You can help people within the LGBTQ+ community to be safe from violence by amplifying the LGBTQ DV Awareness Foundation’s messages, and participating in LGBTQ DV Awareness Day on May 28 every year.
Take action in the workplace
If you are a leader in your workplace, contact us about how you can play a role in ending domestic and family violence.
If you have concerns for a colleague, ask them if they are okay. Let them know you are here for them. Watch this video from MATE which shows how one person can make a big difference.

Workplace giving programs are a great way to donate from your pre-tax income, reducing your taxable income whilst helping QLDers. Learn more.
If you are a staff member, ask your workplace what training and domestic and family violence polices exist, and how well they are working.
Go the extra mile and book DFV training with our expert team. Email or find out more at Workplace Training
Participate in important dates & events (here's a few)
8 March every year: International Women’s Day
April every year: Sexual Assault Awareness Month
May every year: Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month
1 May every year: National Day to remember those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic and family violence.
First Wednesday of May every year: Candle Lighting Vigil to remember those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic violence.
17 May every year: IDAHOBIT
27 May – 3 June: National Reconciliation Week
28 May every year is the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day
First week of June every year: NAIDOC Week
4 August every year: National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day
27 August every year: Wear it Purple Day
October every year: Sexual Violence Awareness month.
25 November every year: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
25 November – 10 December: Orange the world – 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence
3 December: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Support Bella's Sanctuary
Bella’s Sanctuary is a safe place for women and their children to heal and rebuild after violence, providing independent, medium-term accommodation for up to five families at a time.
Bella’s Sanctuary is an Australia-first, made possible by Mirvac, Halcyon, DVConnect and 90 local Gold Coast businesses. Funded 100% by the corporate sector, then donated to not-for-profit DVConnect, we now own and manage the operation of Bella’s Sanctuary.
Mirvac and Halcyon hope that other developers and builders will use Bella’s Sanctuary as a template and recreate similar accommodation for people who have experienced domestic and family violence around the country.
You can find out more about how Halcyon executive Marie Cone came up with the idea for Bella’s Sanctuary in the video below.
Why Bella’s Sanctuary is needed
Bella’s Sanctuary was created because of the lack of affordable housing options on the Gold Coast and across Queensland. An affordable housing option, close to supports, was desperately needed to give women and their children a fresh start.
Bella’s Sanctuary is a safe place for women and their children to reside in for up to 12 months after they leave refuge. It aims to assist women to transition into independent housing (either private rentals or public housing), while supporting the women who live there to be close to family, schools and work on the Gold Coast.
What it’s like to live at Bella’s Sanctuary
Take a look inside Bella’s Sanctuary in the video below.
Bella’s Sanctuary has 5 units comprising of 2 one-bedroom units, including 1 unit accommodating tenants with disabilities, 2 two-bedroom units and 1 three-bedroom unit. Each unit has its own kitchenette, living area and courtyard. Bella’s Sanctuary also has a communal kitchen, living room, laundry, play area, garage, administration office 24/7 security camera system, an alarm, as well as keypad entry on all doors and gates.
A tenant at Bella’s Sanctuary shared with us how she found her experience living at Bella’s with her young son. You can read about it below.
“Bella’s felt like a major turning point in my life. Bella’s was different to refuge because I could make it our home. I also loved that I had space to be alone with Harry* (her son) but could be around other tenants or staff when I needed help or some company. Re-learning my independence was one of the best things that time at Bella’s gave me. I also can’t imagine how hard it would have been to get my first rental if I didn’t have Bella’s in my rental history. Bella’s changed my life and gave me time which was something Harry* and I really needed to get back up on our feet.”
*Names have been changed
How you can support Bella’s Sanctuary
Ever since we welcomed the first family to Bella’s Sanctuary in 2019, we have relied on generous community donations to keep Bella’s doors open.
As the not-for-profit owners and operators of Bella’s Sanctuary, every year we have to raise over $80,000 to continue to provide this safe home for women and their children.
Every donation helps. Please consider supporting Bella’s Sanctuary with a once-off, regular donation, or End of Financial Year donation.
Thank you for keeping Bella’s Sanctuary’s doors open and for helping women and children in Queensland who have experienced domestic and family violence.
Donate here: Donate
Recognition
2019 Winner of the Excellence in Social Responsibility, The Urban Developer Awards
2019 Winner of the Excellence in Industry Leadership, The Urban Developer Awards
2019 Development of the Year, Social Infrastructure (Finalist) The Urban Developer Awards
2019 Winner of the Business Category through developer Halcyon at the Gold Coast City Council Safer Suburbs Award
2019 Winner of the Creating Change Award, Gold Coast Women In Business Awards, Marie Cone of Halcyon who originally created the idea of Bella’s Sanctuary
2020 Halcyon was inducted into the Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Honour Roll for their significant role in building Bella’s Sanctuary.
2020 Mirvac Residential was inducted into the Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Honour Roll for their role in building Bella’s Sanctuary.
2020 Marie Cone was inducted into the Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Honour Roll for her outstanding contribution to helping Queensland women and children who have experienced domestic and family violence.
Help Pets in Crisis
No person should have to stay in an unsafe relationship for fear of what will happen to their pet if they leave. Our Pets in Crisis program with the RSPCA Queensland provides safe accommodation, food and vet care to 300 pets every year whose families have escaped domestic and family violence.
All kinds of pets have been supported through the Pets in Crisis Program including cats, dogs, horses and guinea pigs. The Program is a lifeline, providing peace of mind to women and their children that their pet will be safe and reunited with them soon.
Find out more about how DVConnect and the RSPCA Queensland work together to support pets and their families in the video below.
Why Pets in Crisis is needed
We know that pet abuse, including the threat of pet abuse, can be used to create fear and exert control in domestic and family violence. According to a recent study, 70% of women fleeing domestic violence reported experiencing pet abuse.
Another reason Pets in Crisis is essential is because most refuges in Queensland do not allow pets. The Pets in Crisis Program creates a path to safety for both women and their animals.
How to access Pets in Crisis for your pet
Call DVConnect on 1800 811 811 so that our specialist counsellors can explore your options with you.
How you can help
On average, it costs the RSPCA Queensland a minimum of $150,000 to operate the Pets in Crisis Program. You can help by making a donation or applying to be a foster carer.
Furry Survivor Stories
Beanie & Frankie’s Furry Survivor Story
Beanie and Frankie’s* Mum Iris* was delighted to have her two furry babies back in her care after she left hospital. Iris unfortunately found herself admitted into hospital after her ex-partner had physically assaulted her so badly that she was knocked unconscious. Her neighbours had heard Iris arguing with a male and the dogs barking excessively, so they had called the Police, which is when she was found and taken to hospital by an ambulance. Iris expressed her gratitude to the foster carers who looked after Beanie and Frankie for many reasons. One reason in particular was that their foster carers had given them regular professional pet grooming hair cuts. Iris said that when she lived with her ex-partner she was not able to access any of their finances, even though she had a full time job. (This is called Financial Abuse). Her abuser didn’t allow her to spend money on Beanie and Frankie, other than food so professional pet grooming would have been out of the question. When Beanie and Frankie were first admitted into the Pets In Crisis program they received all the vaccinations and medications required to safeguard them from potentially serious and sometimes fatal diseases. They were desexed and they were microchipped.
Millie’s Furry Survivor Story
Millie needed the Pets In Crisis Program foster care accommodation for 2 months. When she first arrived she also needed veterinary attention in the form of her C5 (Kennel Cough) injection, her heart worm injection, as well as flea and tick medication. She was then placed in a foster care home with another dog, of similar size and age to her. Millie’s reunion with her family was an emotional one. It represented a new beginning and a new life with her family that would be free from violence. Millie’s Mum told the Pets in Crisis Program volunteers that “she didn’t know if she could leave the violent situation she used to be in because she was scared about what would happen to her precious girl Millie.” She went on to add that she is so grateful for this program.
Roxanna’s Furry Survivor Story
Roxanna* is a little Maltese cross weighing only 4kg. Roxanna and her mum had been living with domestic and family violence. Roxanna’s Mum made the courageous decision to leave her abusive partner and needed somewhere safe for Roxanne to go while she fled to safety herself. She called the DVConnect Womensline and Roxanna was admitted into the Pets In Crisis Program. After a tearful goodbye with her Mum, Roxanna headed to the RSPCA Wacol Animal Hospital where she was given a clean bill of health. That night would have been a very scary one for little Roxanna but the vet staff kept a close eye on her and tried to alleviate her nervousness.
The next day Roxanna was the perfect patient as she had her desex surgery. Over the next two days, little Roxanna waited for her behavioral assessment. But she was very anxious and refused to eat. The stress of the shelter environment was just too much for her. That’s when we needed a staff member to step up and agree to take her home straight away. No more time in the kennels for this sweet girl. This is how Roxanna ended up being placed with a loving foster carer named Anna*. Anna said “When I first brought her inside my house, she wasn’t very confident. She was a little unsure of the resident cats and Chihuahua. She had to be hand-fed roast chicken to get her to eat. But she took an instant shine to my partner. Stuck to her like glue! Over the passing weeks, we saw a great transformation in Roxanna. She was outgoing and playful. She even tried to entice my very sedate Chihuahua into games. She was cheeky and funny. And she was eating like a horse! I think she settled into my place really well. Roxanna’s mum ended up needing another 28 days of emergency boarding. But I didn’t mind. I loved caring for this little madam. When it was time to bring her back to the RSPCA Queensland so that her mum could collect her, there were definitely a lot of mixed feelings. When I saw the reunion between Roxanna and her mum, I knew that this was working out exactly as it should. Roxanna’s mum was so happy and so grateful to us for caring for her girl. She grabbed my hand and kept saying “thank you, thank you so much”. Roxanna was ecstatic to see her mum again, her little body squirmed in excitement and her tail wagged uncontrollably. It truly made this whole process worthwhile.”
Missy’s Furry Survivor Story
Sharon* and her children were subjected to domestic violence and abuse. Sharon reached out to DVConnect and expressed she wanted assistance to leave a violent household. Sharon and her children were assisted into safe house accommodation. Naturally Sharon was anxious about leaving Missy, the family dog, with RSPCA Queensland, and was concerned about how Missy would cope with the change in environment. RSPCA Queensland reassured Sharon that Missy would be well cared for through a kind and professional service, and they would be reunited in 28 days. Missy was taken into RSPCA Queensland care and supported by animal attendants and vet clinics to have a physical exam, vaccinations and to be de-wormed. Missy was de-sexed and cleared to proceed to the behavioural assessment stage. In the behavioural assessment stage she was cleared for safety handling, separation anxiety and given the tick that meant she was suitable for foster. While assessment took place, Missy was given twice daily walks and cuddles to ensure she received regular exercise and human connection. Missy was placed with foster carers John and Jenny. John and Jenny were aware she was a Pets In Crisis dog and she had been exposed to a violent environment. Missy’s foster carers were patient as she settled into a routine of regular walks. John and Jenny regularly provided updates to Sharon about how Missy was settling confidently into her new routine. Missy’s stay with John and Jenny was extended by 28 days because of Sharon’s need for more time. Missy was in foster care for 2 months and the family reunion with Missy, Sharon and Sharon’s children was emotional because it represented a new beginning as a family. Sharon was grateful and said to John and Jenny, ‘Thank you so much for looking after my girl. I don’t know what I would have done without this program’.
Marble’s Furry Survivor Story
Chen* contacted the Womensline seeking information about what services DVConnect provides and how DVConnect might assist someone in her situation. Chen had been in a relationship with an abusive partner for 7 years and she had previously been in contact with the Womensline for counselling, support and information. On this most recent occasion, Chen contacted Womensline seeking immediate assistance to get to safety. When identifying potential difficulties and needs in sourcing safe accommodation, Chen stated that she had a 4 year old staffy cross dog named Marble*, that she could not leave at home. In fact, part of the abuse that Chen’s partner had inflicted on her included tormenting Marble. Chen revealed that the idea of leaving Marble behind had been a huge barrier in her previously accessing DVConnect services beyond counselling and support, and Chen’s partner had directly threatened to harm or kill Marble if Chen ever left the relationship. The Womensline Counsellor that Chen spoke with discussed the Pets in Crisis program that DVConnect has available for women and their pets who have experienced domestic or family violence. Although initially reluctant to part from Marble for any extended period of time, Chen self-identified that whilst safety was a priority, assistance through the Pets in Crisis program was the best thing for herself and Marble, and knowing that DVConnect is partnered with reputable organisations through this program including the RSPCA Queensland, Chen decided to enter Marble into the program. On the same day that Chen contacted the Womensline, she had an appointment at a nearby RSPCA that participates in the Pets in Crisis program. Chen signed all documents that ensured Marble would be safe in foster care over a period of a month and then Chen was assisted to emergency motel accommodation and also refuge.
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About Us
17th March, 2020 | by DVConnect
The Principles that guide us
Domestic, family and sexual violence is prevalent, pervasive and a serious human rights violation.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people know best what their communities need and want, and we are committed to listening deeply to these needs and embedding reconciliation in practice.
Everyone has the right to live without fear from violence.
The use of violence is a choice and people need to be held responsible and accountable for their choices.
We operate principally from an intersectional feminist framework.
We acknowledge that domestic and family violence is gender-based violence predominantly perpetrated by men against women and children.
It is critical that we continue to learn from and include diverse voices of survivors and culturally diverse communities when seeking to prevent violence.
We acknowledge and respect the abilities, strengths, goals and needs of people living with disability.
We acknowledge and are responsive to the unique needs and challenges experienced by the LGBTQ+ community.
We acknowledge the value of including the voice of culturally and linguistically diverse populations in our work.
We understand and are adaptable to meet different needs and challenges experienced by people living in regional, rural and remote areas.
We acknowledge the different priorities and concerns for different age groups, including young people and elders.
We provide inclusive services that are evidence-based, person-centred and trauma informed.
We are committed to working collaboratively as part of a broader system.
Our governance will be robust, ethical and transparent.
Our Vision
Our aim is for all relationships to be free from domestic, family and sexual violence.

Our Purpose
Creating pathways for a life free from violence and fear.

Our Values
Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Empowerment.
Our Services and Programs
DVConnect provides the Queensland-wide domestic and family violence helplines, Womensline and Mensline, supporting families to live lives free from violence and facilitating access to safety.
DVConnect also provides the state-wide Sexual Assault Helpline for anyone who has been impacted by sexual abuse, including friends and family of survivors of assault, whether recent or historic.
In addition, DVConnect provides VictimConnect, a new program supporting people impacted by violent crime in Queensland, and clinical oversight as well as specialist counselling services under the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service, 1800RESPECT.
DVConnect works in partnership with the RSPCA Queensland to provide safe accommodation for pets accompanying individuals escaping domestic, family and sexual violence. DVConnect also operates Bella’s Sanctuary, a medium-term transitional accommodation residence for women and children after leaving shelter.
Our expert training team provide tailored training options to business, organisations, government departments and services to help people, recognise and respond to domestic and family violence in the workplace. Find out more about our Workplace Training here.
Our Partnerships
We are grateful to all our partners that help us to support more Queenslanders impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence. Without them, we couldn’t do what we do. Some of our partners include Commbank, Australian Retirement Trust, Halcyon, Mirvac, RSPCA Queensland, Maurice Blackburn, Queensland Rail, Fair World Foundation, Barbie Banks, Milton Common and Cheer Up Inc.

Australian Retirement Trust (formerly QSuper) has been a partner of DVConnect since 2016. Australian Retirement Trust have generously provided funding for one full time crisis counsellor every year since 2016. Their volunteer team also give up their time every year to help organise and deliver the Candle Lighting Vigil to remember lives lost. They also do fundraising activities to raise funds for those affected by domestic and family violence.

Halcyon and Mirvac have been partners of DVConnect since 2018 when a collaboration was formed to build a 5 unit, $1.5 million dollar bridging-accommodation facility. Lifestyle community developers Halcyon and listed property group Mirvac, along with over 90 of their suppliers donated their time, labour and materials to build the facility. The facility comprises 2 one-bedroom units, 2 two-bedroom units and 1 three-bedroom unit. Each unit has its own kitchenette, living area and courtyard. The facility also has a communal kitchen and living room, a play area, garage, a dedicated office space for DVConnect support services, as well as an alarm, state-of-the-art security camera surveillance and keypad entry on all doors and gates.

The RSPCA Queensland has been a partner of DVConnect since 2005 through our Pets In Crisis Program. This program ensures beloved pets are accommodated, receive veterinary care and are cared for while their human family members escape domestic and family violence. We know that a barrier to escaping violence is leaving pets behind so this program with the RSPCA Queensland is life saving for humans and their furry friends.

Maurice Blackburn Women’s Network announced their partnership with DVConnect on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2019 to coincide with their 100 years of fighting fair. Maurice Blackburn Women’s Network are committed to working with DVConnect to end domestic, family and sexual violence. The law firm have always been dedicated to social justice and were instrumental in contributing to some of Australia’s most influential legal decisions, including equal pay for women. They provide DVConnect with a variety of professional services pro bono. In addition, the Maurice Blackburn’s Equity Team have donated $10,000 cash. Maurice Blackburn employees also volunteer at DVConnect events and hold fundraising activities for our service.

Queensland Rail has been a partner of DVConnect since 2010. Queensland Rail has generously provided complementary long-haul train travel to DVConnect clients as there are many occasions where it is not safe for a person to stay in the same town or city where they experienced domestic violence.
Community Partners

Queensland Country Women’s Association has been a partner of DVConnect since 2011. Country Women’s Association has generously provided DVConnect with care packs for people escaping domestic and family violence.
Board of Directors
DVConnect is governed by a Board of Directors whose primary purpose is to provide strong governance and strategic framework. This governance will guide and support the management team in the development and financing of the organisations activities.
The Directors also act as a reference point for specific issues that require expertise beyond the core capability of the organisations’ professionals. The Directors undertake duties and obligations as required by the Corporations Act, the Service Agreement and other funding service delivery guidelines issued by the Department of Communities.
For previous Directors, please view the Annual Reports.
Trina Hockley AM FAICM BHMS GMQ, CHAIR
Trina is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and has more than 25 years of experience as a non-executive Director and business owner. She has specialist knowledge in the education, training, youth and disability sectors. Trina is also a current Non-Executive Director of TAFE Qld and Arcadia College/Ohana for Youth/Ohana College. Her community contributions have been recognised with awards including as an Outstanding Volunteer to the Indigenous Community and a 20-year Leadership Award from the City of Gold Coast. She is a mentor for the Queensland Government’s Mentoring for Growth Program and an avid advocate for women in trades.
Fiona Maxwell, DIRECTOR
Appointed Director 18 September 2017. Appointed Acting Chair 4 May 2022 and leading the new Chair recruitment process.
Fiona Maxwell’s career has spanned the non-profit, government and university sectors in Australia and the USA. Prior to becoming CEO of Brisbane Powerhouse, Fiona was Queensland Manager for Philanthropy Australia, establishing the Brisbane office and supporting philanthropists and non-profits alike to grow the sector. Fiona has extensive experience building strong relationships with stakeholders in various industries including the service industry, internet start-up sector and philanthropic sector.
Fiona holds a Bachelor of Arts from Queensland University of Technology, a Masters from the University of New South Wales and recently completed the Executive Program for Non-profit Leaders at Stanford University.
Enid Hughes, DEPUTY CHAIR
Appointed Deputy Chair 21 August 2017
Enid is a strategic thinker and experienced management consultant bringing to the table broad executive capabilities across; business strategy, HR management, project management, brand management, organisational change and information technology. Her experience covers the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Enid is focused on performance; with a passion for business transformation through technology and organisational change.
Enid is an advocate of women at all levels and in all walks of life and is an active mentor.
Enid holds a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Applied Science (Computing).
Linda Dreghorn, SECRETARY
Appointed Secretary 22 February 2015. Appointed Director 20 July 2010
Linda Dreghorn is currently Company Secretary for Green Cross Australia, and Manager, Business Performance – Governance at Arts Queensland. Previous roles include Company Secretary and Legal Counsel for Major Brisbane Festivals Pty Ltd, General Manager of Brisbane Festival 2006, Secretary and Director of the Secretariat of the Queensland Law Society Inc., Co-ordinator of Due Diligence for SunWater’s acquisition of major water infrastructure and Lecturer in Law at the Queensland University of Technology.
Linda has a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Queensland, a Graduate Diploma in Company Secretarial Studies and is a graduate of the ACID Company Directors’ course.
Ben Bjarnesen, DIRECTOR
Appointed Director 19 August 2019
Ben Bjarnesen is a 2016 Churchill Fellow, who has conducted international research on how Police forces and support services can best respond to domestic violence incidents in LGBTI communities. He is a training facilitator for the Queensland AIDS Council Domestic Violence Awareness Training and is involved with various other not for profit organisations. Ben is a guest lecturer and key note speaker both internationally and across Australia on the topic of domestic violence in LGBTI communities. He is a member of the Queensland Government’s LGBTI Roundtable, which facilitates government engagement with LGBTI communities and provides a mechanism for communities to highlight issues, challenges and opportunities with Queensland government agencies.
Ben is an operational Police officer and has served in metropolitan Brisbane and outback Queensland, including the regional town of Roma where he spearheaded the development and implementation of the community support group, “Anything but Straight.” This group provides support, education and referral services to LGBTI clients and in 2011 Ben was nominated for the Young Australian of the Year Award for this initiative. Ben is the Regional Coordinator (Brisbane Region) of the Queensland Police Service LGBTI Liaison Officer Program and in 2017 was named as one of the top 50 most influential and inspiring LGBTI Australians by Cosmopolitan Magazine. In 2020, Ben founded the LGBTIQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day, which is held on 28 May every year.
Ben was inducted into the Queensland Government’s inaugural Domestic & Family Violence Prevention Honour Roll in 2020.
Ben holds a Diploma of Public Safety (Policing), as well as Certificate III Security Operations.
Naomi Meade, DIRECTOR
Appointed Director 18 November 2019
Naomi Meade is an employment law and employee relations specialist, with experience in both the public and private sector. Currently, Naomi is a Human Resource Manager at QIC, a government owned investment company. Previously she worked as the Queensland and Northern Territory Manager for employment relations case management at Qantas and as a practicing solicitor in workplace law with Crown Law in the Dept of Justice and Attorney General. She started her legal career as a family law solicitor, working in private practice, at the Women’s Legal Service, and at the Family Court of Australia as a Legal Associate in the appellate division.
Naomi holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), a Bachelor of Business (BIntBus) Law. She also holds a Graduate Diploma Practical Legal Training, Law.
Fatima Deen, DIRECTOR
Appointed Director 27 April 2021
Fatima is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) with 20 years experience in the insolvency, turnaround and restructuring fields focusing on small to medium enterprises. Fatima holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Business (Accountancy) from the Queensland University of Technology, A Graduate diploma in legal practice, Advanced certifications in Insolvency and Restructuring & Turnaround (Australian Restructuring Insolvency and Turnaround Association and The University of New South Wales).
Carly Jacobitz AHPRA GAICD, DIRECTOR
Carly is a registered psychologist and graduate of the AICD who brings 15 years of operational and executive experience in human services. She is the National Director at Life Without Barriers and is a non-executive Director of PeakCare, the child protection peak body in Queensland. Her extensive experience in child protection and disability within government and for-purpose organisations led her to be appointed to the Queensland Government’s Truth, Healing and Reconciliation Taskforce. Carly remains strongly committed to vulnerable children, young people, and families and is an advocate for financial agility and innovation within the organisations that serve them.
Professor Patrick O’Leary BSW(Hons) PhD, DIRECTOR
Patrick is an internationally-recognised researcher currently based at Griffith University with significant expertise in domestic violence/gender-based violence (with a focus on perpetrator intervention, integrated, differential, and intersectional responses), child protection, long-term impact of child sexual abuse (especially for men), social work, hope, and socially excluded young people. He is Co-lead of the University’s Disrupting Violence Beacon and Director of Violence Research and Prevention Program (VRPP) which operates the bystander intervention project, MATE. Patrick was a member of the Queensland Women’s Safety and Justice Taskforce examining coercive control and women’s experience of the justice system. He was also an Expert Academic Advisor to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Patrick Chairs the Clinical Advisory Committee for SAMSN, supporting male survivors of child sexual abuse.
Special acknowledgement of Auntie Heather Castledine
DVConnect would like to recognise the service of Auntie Heather Castledine, as Board Director for more than 8 years, and then continuing to guide our governance as First Nations Cultural Advisor for 3 years.
Auntie Heather is a proud Kamilaroi-Kooma woman, with an extensive career as an Aboriginal Cultural Consultant, particularly in health, reconciliation and champion for the greater Logan area. She provided a strong guiding hand for DVConnect across many areas of First Nations work and issues, including cultural competency, protocols, and community engagement. Further, Auntie Heather was kind, generous, and incredibly committed to her work with the organisation.
As First Nations women and children are disproportionately impacted by domestic and family violence, our service aims to work alongside, and be guided by First Nations services and community-led organisations to provide a service that is culturally respectful and safe for our clients.
With the strong starting point that Auntie Heather has provided, we look forward to growing our First Nations leadership and voices across the organisation, to make positive change for the whole community.
Our Funding Bodies
Department of Justice and Attorney-General, Queensland Government (funds Womensline, Mensline, Sexual Assault Helpline), Telstra Health funds 1800RESPECT, alongside the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Victim Assist Queensland funds our program, VictimConnect.
Policies
DVConnect Client Charter
All relationships should be free from domestic, family and sexual violence
What you can expect from DVConnect:
You will be believed.
You will be treated with respect and dignity.
That your safety and the safety of other family members is our first priority.
Your needs will be responded to in a professional, flexible and empowering manner.
You will receive a personalised service that recognises your individual circumstances, needs and respects your choices.
You have the right to provide feedback or ask questions on any aspect of your contact with DVConnect.
We will treat your personal and confidential information sensitively and responsibly.
DVConnect recognizes your right to:
Safety
To live without fear of violence.
To have access to an environment free from violence.
To be assisted to recognise and respond to your safety needs.
Access and Equity
To obtain a respectful and inclusive service regardless of your cultural or linguistic background, age, sexual preference, gender identity, disability, mental health issue, economic status or other affiliation or individual difference; or the fact that you have children.
To have your specific needs recognised and responded to.
Access a suitably qualified interpreter of your choice, if available.
Empowerment
To receive information that is accurate, timely, relevant and easy to understand.
To be empowered to make informed decisions and to be supported to follow through with decisions made.
You can change your mind or withdraw from our service at any time.
Confidentiality
To have the confidentiality policy of the service explained to you.
To give informed consent before your information is shared with any other person or agency, unless required by law.
To have your records kept secure.
Coordination
To easily access accurate information on other services that may be able to assist you.
To have services that are involved in responding to people affected by domestic, family or sexual violence, work professionally and with each other to assist you.
Advocacy
To be assisted to advocate for your rights and/or the rights of your children.
Prevention
To have information on the prevention of domestic and family violence promoted in the community.
To be provided with information regarding behaviour change programs, where a program is available and appropriate.
Accountability
To have access to professional, experienced and skilled workers.
To give constructive feedback on the service received and contribute ideas on the improvement of the service.
Service Environment
To have access to an effectively managed and administered service.
To be able to make a complaint about any service received and to have the issues responded to and resolved in good faith.
How you can help us to assist you:
Provide us with all requested information about your circumstances
Tell us if you have special needs
Let us know if you need an interpreter
Treat our counsellors with courtesy and respect
Giving feedback or making a complaint:
DVConnect is focused on providing you with excellent client service and values feedback on the quality and responsiveness of our service. If you are not happy with our service or have ideas on how we can improve we would like to hear from you via email to or calling 07 3156 2323. Importantly, you will not be disadvantaged in being provided a service by making a complaint.
Please feel free to mention any concerns to the counsellor dealing with your case, or if you prefer, ask to speak with a Team Leader or Manager. If they are not on duty at the time of your call – they will return your call at the next available opportunity.
You may also put your feedback or complaint in writing noted “In Confidence” to the Chief Executive Officer, PO Box 10575 Adelaide Street, Brisbane 4000. DVConnect takes client feedback and complaints very seriously and will investigate appropriately. From initial contact we will keep you informed of the progress and outcome of any investigation or changes made as a result of your feedback.
Whistle Blower Policy
For more information on the below policies, please contact us at
Whistle Blower Protection
DVConnect Privacy Policy
DVConnect operates within the Information Privacy Act 2009
This privacy policy statement applies to all individuals whose personal information we may collect in the course of providing the Service. This includes the people who contact us because they experience the impacts of sexual assault, domestic or family violence, family and friends affected by violence or abuse, and the frontline workers and professionals who use our resources to support people experiencing violence and abuse.
Callers may remain anonymous if they are not requiring a service beyond counselling, safety planning or referral information.
In instances where a caller to Womensline is requiring an emergency evacuation or crisis accommodation, DVConnect will be required to collect personal information. Without this information DVConnect is unable to facilitate safety planning.
Information collected by DVConnect will only be used for the purpose for which it was collected.
All records and electronic data are protected from unauthorised use.
Client information will not be disclosed or shared without the caller’s consent unless required by law and/or the policies of this organisation.
Reasonable access to information that the caller has provided to DVConnect will be made available to the caller upon receipt of a written request that also includes proof of identity.
Herstory
1980
A Queensland telephone crisis service for women in need of support, advice and assistance as a result of domestic and family violence was established by the Department of Communities Crisis Care program. The telephone number 1800 811 811 has been operational since 1980.
2002
DVConnect commenced operating the Womensline and Mensline.
2003
The Domestic Violence Act Amendment included elder abuse and informal care relationships which broadened the scope of delivery through the funded services of the sector.
2009
DVConnect received funding for the Sexual Assault Helpline.
Annually, DVConnect takes in excess of 100,000 calls across all lines and provides crisis intervention across a number of key services. Womensline receives 1 call for help every 7 minutes (across a 24 hour period). This is in the form of emergency telephone support, evacuation and crisis accommodation placement for families affected by abusive relationships, counselling for men, women and victims of sexual assault, education and support for men, community education and care for pets of families experiencing domestic and family violence.
DVConnect operates under a framework of a gendered analysis of domestic and family violence. A gendered analysis is supported by research, evidence and data, and indicates that domestic and family violence is most often perpetrated by men against women; and that perpetrators of this violence are fully responsible for their actions.

Annual Reports
DVConnect Annual Report 2021-2022 Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2020-2021Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2019-2020Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2018-2019Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2017-2018Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2016-2017Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2015-2016Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2014-2015Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2013-2014Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2012-2013Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2011-2012Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2010- 2011Download
DVConnect Annual Report 2008 -2009Download
Survivor Stories
4th February, 2020 | by DVConnect
There is always a path to safety: Tahnee* and her 4 children’s story
19 year old Tahnee* was highly distressed when she spoke to the Womensline Counsellor. She was terrified that her partner would come to her neighbour’s house where she was calling from and force her and her 4 children to return home.
Tahnee’s partner’s violence had escalated since the birth of her child only 3 weeks earlier and she needed to get her and her 4 children, all under the age of 10, to safety. With hardly any belongings and no place to stay, the Womensline Counsellor and Support Worker worked as a team, always having one person on the phone with Tahnee while the other contacted a local Women’s Centre so Tahnee could receive some face to face counselling and practical support. After DVConnect transported Tahnee and her children to the Women’s Centre, the Womensline Counsellor worked closely with the staff at the Centre to ensure Tahnee didn’t have to re-tell her story to various services.
The Womensline Counsellor then organised emergency motel accommodation for Tahnee and her children. While in motel accommodation, a Womensline Counsellor called Tahnee to see how she and the kids were. Tahnee said she felt supported and safe and had been visited in the motel by a staff member from the Women’s Centre who gave her children’s clothes, nappies, food and some toys. This really helped because when Tahnee escaped her home, she had to leave almost everything behind.
Tahnee said she felt deeply appreciative of the swift support she received through a coordinated service response which had been facilitated by DVConnect. Tahnee and her children were later able to go into a high security refuge where they would receive support to get back up on their feet.
DVConnect has many positive working relationships with partner agencies across Queensland. These relationships are particularly valuable in remote and regional areas where DVConnect is fortunate to work with partner organisations that have resources and local expertise. These relationships have proven to be essential for supporting women with basic material aid, face to face support, and even a safe place to sit with a cup of tea for a couple of hours.

*Name and location have been changed to protect our client’s identity. Stock photo above.
Domestic Violence doesn’t discriminate: Xanthe’s* Story
Xanthe* called DVConnect very unsure of what to expect from us. Xanthe said that she was a devout Christian and the thought of leaving her husband was distressing. She was concerned about the type of advice she would receive from someone who was not a Christian and therefore could not understand her situation.
The counsellor reassured Xanthe that after their talk, she would be the one making the decision about her life and that all DVConnect would do is provide her information, options for her to consider, and support if she wanted it.
Xanthe was well educated, financially secure and lived in an area where there wasn’t thought to be any domestic violence. But domestic and family violence doesn’t discriminate. It occurs in all communities an impacts all kinds of people. Xanthe also held a very high position as a Financial Advisor for a large firm in town and was married to a highly connected man which meant leaving him was not only frightening because of his control over her but she also felt shame about her work, social circle and church finding out.
She said, “No one will believe that he could do that to me not even the pastor. He presents so well”. A Safety Plan was put in place between the Womensline Counsellor and Xanthe and part of the Safety Plan was that if Xanthe needed further help from DVConnect, she would call. Three weeks later Xanthe called DVConnect to say that she would be leaving that night and needed our help. We supported Xanthe to safety so she could live a life free from violence and abuse.

*Name and location have been changed to protect our client’s identity. Stock photo above.
A special bond: Amara* and Bella’s* story
Amara* had been in a relationship with an abusive partner for 7 years. She had been in contact with DVConnect’s Womensline in the past for counselling, support and information. Now Amara contacted Womensline seeking immediate assistance to get to safety.
Amara had a 4 year old rescue chihuahua named Bella* that she would not leave behind in an unsafe home. Part of the abuse that Amara’s partner had inflicted on her included tormenting Bella and threatening to kill Bella if Amara ever left him. The idea of leaving Bella behind had been a huge barrier in her previously accessing DVConnect services beyond counselling and support.
The Womensline Counsellor that Amara spoke with explained the Pets in Crisis program with the RSPCA QLD for women and their pets who have experienced domestic or family violence. Although initially reluctant to part with Bella for any extended period of time, Amara recognised how the Pets in Crisis program could support her and Bella to safety.
On the same day that Amara contacted Womensline, she received an appointment at a nearby RSPCA that participated in the Pets in Crisis program. Amara signed all documents that ensured Bella would be safe in foster care over a period of a month and then Amara was assisted by DVConnect into emergency motel accommodation and then refuge.
Amara was later reunited with Bella.

*Name and location have been changed to protect our client’s identity. Stock photo above.
Journey to healing: Daisy’s* Story
A police station in Far North Queensland referred Daisy*, a First Nations woman, to DVConnect. Daisy was a young person who had been experiencing domestic and family violence from her partner of 6 months and the violence had escalated recently.
The Police advised that although Daisy’s partner was currently being detained, there was a high likelihood he would be released within 24 hours. And due to living in a small, remote community, her partner lived in close proximity to her family’s home. Daisy required urgent assistance to get to safety.
When Daisy spoke to Womensline, she said she had a safe family member who lived in another town who she could stay with. However, Daisy didn’t have a contact number for them. Before we could organise transport to this safe relative, we needed to know that they would allow her to stay with them. With Daisy’s consent, we coordinated with local Police to contact the family member and confirm they were happy to have Daisy come to stay with them.
Having confirmed Daisy could stay with her relative who lived outside of town, the Womensline team booked Daisy on the next available flight and local Police assisted Daisy to the airport. Daisy arrived safely at her extended family’s home.
UPDATE
It’s been a few years since Daisy relocated and she has stayed connected to her culture. She also achieved her goal of graduating from TAFE and now works a full time job.
The collaborative action between DVConnect and local remote Police supported Daisy, who had experienced significant trauma, to live a safe life and start her journey of healing. Daisy’s survivor story says it all about how important it is to respond swiftly and collaboratively to complex circumstances, while also including culturally sensitive and appropriate practice. Daisy was relocated within 24 hours of the Police referral to DVConnect.

*Name and location have been changed to protect our client’s identity. Stock photo above.
Refuge is not the only option: Lynette’s* Story
A Social Worker from a regional hospital contacted DVConnect’s Womensline about a patient who had been a victim of ongoing domestic violence. Lynette* was in her late 60’s and had been experiencing abuse from her husband who was also her Carer.
Lynette was financially dependent on her husband and had no access to money. Lynette also had mobility issues (due to her disability) and injuries from a combination of neglect and abuse by her husband. Lynette needed a safe place that could also meet her care needs.
In working closely with the Hospital Social Work team, DVConnect were able to identify that Lynette had an adult son who lived interstate and wanted to help. While Lynette was in hospital, her son set his house up so that she could come and live with him.
Due to Lynette being unable to travel or live independently, DVConnect assisted Lynette’s son to Queensland to pick his mother up from the hospital. DVConnect then assisted Lynette and her son to her son’s home interstate.
Refuge is not the only option DVConnect provides to women. We want to create a pathway to safety for every person who calls us. And that looks different for each client. Support networks are essential for survivors of violence and abuse.

*Name and location have been changed to protect our client’s identity. Stock photo above.
We’re strongest when we work together: Deema’s* Story
DVConnect’s Womensline received a call from a Hospital Social Worker seeking safe accommodation for a patient. The patient, Deema* had been admitted following a domestic violence incident.
Deema was a transgender woman who was deaf and non-verbal. Deema could communicate via written notes or text messages but she didn’t have a phone. Deema was also in Australia on a tourist visa which expired 2 days earlier. She wanted to return to her country of origin but the person using violence had taken her passport to prevent her from leaving.
The hospital Social Worker and other medical staff, we were able to facilitate an extended hospital admission for Deema to give the Womensline team enough time to coordinate support for her.
We worked with Deema and the Embassy from her country of origin to secure a visa and passport as a matter of priority. We also sourced a WESNET phone for her and Centacare delivered this phone to Deema in the hospital. Once Deema had the phone set up and was medically discharged, we booked her into emergency motel accommodation and assisted her with travel to the motel.
DVConnect worked very closely with the Embassy and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to support Deema. Deema’s documentation was confirmed within 2 business days and Deema was promptly on a flight home to her mother. The collaboration and coordination facilitated by DVConnect meant that Deema was on her way home within 4 days of her first contact with us.
The next day, the Womensline team received an email from the Embassy Consular of Deema’s Embassy stating: “this is amazing TEAMwork”. We also received a text message from Deema who told us that she was so happy to be reunited with her mother and she thanked us for all of the support that we provided to assist her to safety.
DVConnect’s strengths lie in our ability to respond quickly, think laterally and act collaboratively, to provide an individualised and sensitive response to women seeking safety.

*Name and location have been changed to protect our client’s identity. Stock photo above.
All women deserve to feel safe at home: Maddie* and her twins Story
Maddie* was a young woman living on one of the islands in the Torres Strait. She lived with her partner, their twin girls and his family. Maddie’s family were from another island, so she had no supports close by when her partner assaulted her.
Although Maddie’s partner fled the home after the assault in order to evade Police, she knew he would eventually return home and she and her twins would be unsafe again. So the next day, she went to a health clinic with her girls.
At the clinic, Maddie was connected with DVConnect’s Womensline. She told the Counsellor that she wanted to be with her family on the other Island as she and her twins would be safe there. Her family agreed so DVConnect arranged a flight for Maddie and her twins, departing the following morning.
The health clinic agreed to look after Maddie and her twins with the help of the local community Police who would protect them until she was safely on the plane.
DVConnect arranges up to four flights a week from remote parts of the State including the Torres Strait, Gulf region. Because all women deserve to feel safe at home.

*Name and location have been changed to protect our client’s identity. Stock photo above.