Women’s Shelters
Women’s shelters (sometimes called safe houses or refuges) provide safe and secure accommodation and specialist support for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
In order to maintain security and safety, the location and details of women’s shelters are confidential and not available to the public. It is a condition of entering most women’s shelters / safe houses / refuges that you understand you cannot reveal the location to ANYONE – including your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay at the women’s shelter?
In most cases as long as you need to; but it will depend on you and to some extent the various circumstances or facilities available at the women’s shelter.
What are women’s shelters like?
There are different styles of shelter accommodation. Some provide a self-contained family unit with your own small kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. Others offer a more communal style house where you will have your own room for yourself and your children, and other areas will be shared by the other women and children staying there.
How do I arrange safe accommodation?
A Crisis Counsellor will need to speak with you personally and will ask you details about your current situation. Call DVConnect Womensline 1800 811 811.
What can I take with me?
Safe accommodation houses do not have facilities to store furniture or large amounts of personal effects; you will only be able to take some necessities and a few personal belongings such as clothing, jewellery and small items of sentimental value, photographs, children’s favourite toys, and toiletries.
Can I get legal advice when I call?
DVConnect cannot offer legal advice. Our Crisis Counsellors work to provide options and information.
Will the women’s shelter be able to meet my needs as a woman from a culturally and linguistically diverse background?
Women’s shelters are sensitive to different cultures and religions and will, wherever possible, accommodate the needs of people to participate in their religion.
