MORE women and children escaping domestic and family violence all across New South Wales will now be able to access support to end an abusive relationship and stay safely in their own homes, with the expansion of the Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) program.

The program has expanded to Narrabri and District Community Aid and Gunida Gunyah Aboriginal Corporation at Gunnedah.

Last financial year, SHLV supported 6500 victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, including 1293 children who have experienced abuse.

A 2022 evaluation found the program to “effectively contribute to the long‑term safety and housing stability of women and families” and achieved enhanced wellbeing for women and children affected by domestic and family violence.

Under the program, local police make sure the perpetrator is removed from the home, while victim-survivors receive safety planning, security upgrades at properties where required, financial planning assistance and help navigating complex legal processes.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said too often victim-survivors of domestic and family violence are forced to leave their homes in order to escape abuse.

“Staying Home Leaving Violence helps the victim-survivor to stay safely in their own home, or a home of their choice and to keep important connections in their own community. This program aims to support women to live in safety and to maintain housing stability,” she said.

“Keeping women and children connected to their families, support network, schools, workplaces, and neighbourhoods is so important for their recovery. People should not be forced to abandon those connections to escape a violent situation.”

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero (000).

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 656463 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT at https://1800respect.org.au/

or 13 YARN at https://www.13yarn.org.au/ on 13 92 76.

Media Release: Communities and Justice