Ending abuse should not mean losing your home or community connections.
Rebuilding safety, independence and stability after domestic or family violence requires specialised, compassionate guidance.
Through the Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) program, dedicated support caseworkers help women, (with or without children) in the Newcastle Local Government Area. Whether you are preparing to leave, actively escaping, or recovering from a violent relationship, we provide confidential casework to help individuals remain safely in their own homes or transition into alternative secure housing.
Need urgent help?
Family Support Newcastle is not an emergency or crisis service and does not provide emergency accommodation.
If you are in immediate danger or need urgent crisis support or accommodation, please contact an emergency or specialist crisis service.
How we can assist you
Safety planning and home security
Your safety comes first. Our caseworkers conduct thorough safety assessments and design personalised safety plans for your home, workplace and daily routines. Practical security support can include:
- Upgrading and installing new door locks, window locks and sensor lights.
- Managing online security, digital privacy and mobile phone security settings.
- Establishing emergency exit steps and personal protection routines tailored to your living situation.
Legal advocacy and ADVO support
Navigating legal processes during a crisis can feel overwhelming. We assist by:
- Providing advocacy and support to obtain Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs).
- Seeking exclusion conditions on court orders to legally exclude the perpetrator from the family home.
- Attending court appearances alongside you for practical and emotional support.
Practical assistance and housing advocacy
Re-establishing independence involves navigating complex administrative and financial requirements. We provide support with:
- Advocacy alongside NSW police, the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), and housing providers.
- Managing tenancy agreements and securing long-term, stable housing.
Who can access support?
Eligibility
All women, (with or without children) living within the Newcastle Local Government Area who are experiencing, escaping, or recovering from domestic or family violence.
Inclusive care
We welcome Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, refugees, LGBTIQA+ communities and people living with disability.
Voluntary support
Accessing support is 100% voluntary. You remain in control of all decisions regarding your life, housing and ongoing care.
How to get assistance
Connecting with a specialised caseworker is safe, direct and straightforward.
Self-referrals
Parents, guardians, and individuals can reach us directly by phone or submit an online enquiry form to request support.
- Call reception on (02) 4926 3577 or submit a completed referral form below.
- An intake worker will hear your concerns, discuss your current situation, and determine the most appropriate support stream with you
Professional and agency referrals
Health professionals, schools, legal aid providers, police, and community workers can submit a referral on behalf of a client with their consent.
- Call reception on (02) 4926 3577 or submit a completed referral form below.
- An intake worker will hear your concerns, discuss the current situation, and determine the most appropriate support stream for your client.
Frequently asked questions
Is this service available to women without children?
Yes. The Staying Home Leaving Violence project provides full casework, safety upgrades, legal advocacy, and emotional support to all women escaping domestic and family violence, regardless of whether you have children.
Can I access support if I am still living with the person using violence?
Yes. You can access support regardless of whether you have already left, are preparing to leave, or are currently evaluating your options. Caseworkers work with you at your pace to establish safety strategies without pressure.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality and privacy are strictly maintained across all services in accordance with Australian privacy laws. Information is not shared with outside agencies without your explicit consent, except in circumstances where there is an immediate risk of serious harm or legal safety obligations.
Does Family Support Newcastle provide emergency overnight shelter?
No. Family Support Newcastle provides community-based casework, home safety upgrades, and non-residential support during business hours. If you require immediate emergency shelter or crisis accommodation, call the NSW Domestic Violence Hotline on 1800 656 463, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000.
Are these services free?
Yes. All casework, safety planning and emotional support services provided through the Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) project are completely free of charge.