COVID-19 Response and
Helpful Resources

At NBWS, we are mindful that the COVID-19 pandemic, along with the resulting economic crisis, will place enormous strain on vulnerable women and many people in our community are concerned for their safety or the safety of a loved one. We know that isolation conditions due to COVID-19 will likely increase the intensity of domestic and family violence over the coming weeks.

Women who have experienced domestic violence, being confined in close quarters could place them at risk of further incidents. Protecting members of the community remains an essential service and people should not hesitate to contact the Police if in immediate danger. The police will continue to respond to calls for help from victims of domestic violence.

Please visit this link which provides information in respect of recent changes to law around Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders.

In short, we predict that the Police will now apply for more provisional ADVOs and there may be an extended period (possibly up to 6 months) before these can be heard in Court.

The family law courts are still open and the Court is conducting most matters by phone.

There are hotlines that provide advice for people with concerns about domestic and violence and abuse.

For anyone needing national support call:

Get immediate help

1800 RESPECT

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, you can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or through online chat or click this link to visit their website.

Lifeline

A national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. 

NSW Domestic Violence Line

1800 65 64 63

NSW Domestic Violence Line is a free call service that provides support to women – with or without children – who are experiencing partner or ex-partner violence. All calls to the Domestic Violence Line are answered by female workers. 

Whilst NBWS is only able to provide shelter and support to single women, NBWS  provides support for women who do now have their children in their care and assists with family restoration, in the event if a women needs to leave due to domestic violence and sadly leave her children behind.  We also understand this is a time when families and children are also at risk. As such we provide this important link for those families who are bound by parenting orders and are worried about the impact of COVID-19 on compliance with those Orders and how parenting orders may be affected by an escalation of family violence.

Our shelter is experiencing a very busy time as we ensure we support homeless women who need us during this time. However, our capacity to fundraise has been reduced due to social distancing so if you can help us to ensure we can provide more support to women who need it please click DONATE now.

NBWS supports single adult homeless women from across the Northern Beaches of NSW (sometimes from further afield for their own safety). We list numbers below for your information and assistance.

We extend our best wishes to you and your families with the hope that you remain healthy and safe