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[Document title]
Penda Find Your Financial Freedom Find Your Financial Freedom Find Your Financial Freedom Find Your Financial Freedom
Information and referral booklet
Safety, legal and financial information for women who have experienced domestic violence.
1
Table of Contents About Penda .............................................................................................................................................. 5
Disclaimer ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Other languages ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Acknowledgements ................................................................................................................................. 9
Safety ........................................................................................................................................................ 10
Do you need help? .................................................................................................................................. 10
Are you at risk of harm? ....................................................................................................................... 11
Your safety at court .............................................................................................................................. 11
Do you need a safety plan before separation? ........................................................................... 14
Do you need a safety plan after separation? .............................................................................. 17
Are you safe when using technology? ........................................................................................... 19
How to be safe when using technology ........................................................................................ 21
Domestic and family violence ........................................................................................................... 25
What is domestic and family violence? ......................................................................................... 25
What are the types of DFV? .......................................................................................................... 25
What is a domestic and family violence order? ......................................................................... 27
Money ....................................................................................................................................................... 28
Emergency Money ................................................................................................................................. 28
Money safety plan ................................................................................................................................. 30
Do you need a money safety plan before separation? ....................................................... 30
Do you need a money safety plan immediately after separation? ................................ 31
Banking ....................................................................................................................................................... 32
Centrelink and child support ............................................................................................................. 34
Employment and Study........................................................................................................................ 37
Financial Hardship ................................................................................................................................. 38
Loans ........................................................................................................................................................... 41
Business Debts ................................................................................................................................... 42
Car Loans .............................................................................................................................................. 44
Consumer leases ................................................................................................................................ 47
Credit cards .......................................................................................................................................... 49
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Joint debts ............................................................................................................................................ 53
Mortgages ............................................................................................................................................. 54
Personal Loans and Payday Loans .............................................................................................. 57
Preparing to see a financial counsellor ......................................................................................... 59
Utilities and Bills ..................................................................................................................................... 61
Electricity, gas and water ............................................................................................................... 61
Other bills ............................................................................................................................................. 64
Phones .................................................................................................................................................... 65
Your financial future and confidence with money ................................................................... 66
First steps .............................................................................................................................................. 66
Rebuild your confidence: take charge of your money ........................................................ 67
Budgeting .............................................................................................................................................. 68
Your future ........................................................................................................................................... 69
Wills, insurance, superannuation and power of attorney ..................................................... 71
Wills ......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Insurance ............................................................................................................................................... 71
Superannuation .................................................................................................................................. 71
Power of attorney ............................................................................................................................. 72
Visa and Immigration ........................................................................................................................... 73
Resources .................................................................................................................................................. 73
Children ................................................................................................................................................... 74
Childcare.................................................................................................................................................... 74
Child support ........................................................................................................................................... 75
Legal Matters ......................................................................................................................................... 77
Children ..................................................................................................................................................... 77
Preparing to see a lawyer about parenting matters ................................................................ 77
Domestic and Family Violence Orders ......................................................................................... 78
Tips........................................................................................................................................................... 78
How can you get a domestic and family violence order? .................................................. 79
Once you have a domestic and family violence order ........................................................ 85
Property Settlement ............................................................................................................................. 85
3
Tips........................................................................................................................................................... 85
What do I need to know about property settlement? ........................................................ 86
What can be included in a property settlement? .................................................................. 86
Four step process .............................................................................................................................. 87
Reaching agreement ......................................................................................................................... 88
Preparing to see a lawyer about property settlement ....................................................... 88
Tips........................................................................................................................................................... 88
Spousal or de facto maintenance .................................................................................................... 90
Tips........................................................................................................................................................... 90
What can I ask for? ............................................................................................................................ 90
Wills, insurance, superannuation and power of attorney ................................................. 91
Housing .................................................................................................................................................... 92
Emergency Housing .............................................................................................................................. 92
Support services ................................................................................................................................. 92
If you are renting ................................................................................................................................ 93
If you have a mortgage and/or you own a property .............................................................. 104
You are a borrower on the mortgage ...................................................................................... 104
You are not the owner of the property or a borrower on the mortgage .................. 106
Wellness................................................................................................................................................... 107
Your financial future and confidence with money ............................................................. 107
Wellness tips ...................................................................................................................................... 111
Services and Information .................................................................................................................. 114
Safety and domestic and family violence ................................................................................... 114
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander services .................................................................... 114
Culturally and linguistically diverse services ....................................................................... 119
Disability services ............................................................................................................................ 122
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex services ............................................ 125
Safety .................................................................................................................................................... 126
Other Support ................................................................................................................................... 129
Money ....................................................................................................................................................... 133
Consumer, credit and debt legal services .............................................................................. 133
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Credit Reports .................................................................................................................................. 133
Dispute resolution schemes ........................................................................................................ 134
Phones .................................................................................................................................................. 136
Emergency money ........................................................................................................................... 136
Employment ....................................................................................................................................... 137
Money ................................................................................................................................................... 141
Legal services ......................................................................................................................................... 142
National ............................................................................................................................................... 143
State/Territory ................................................................................................................................. 143
Visa and immigration .......................................................................................................................... 151
National ............................................................................................................................................... 151
State/Territory ................................................................................................................................. 151
Children ................................................................................................................................................... 154
Housing .................................................................................................................................................... 155
Emergency housing ......................................................................................................................... 155
Tenancy matters .............................................................................................................................. 156
Wellness................................................................................................................................................... 158
Information ............................................................................................................................................. 159
General information ....................................................................................................................... 159
Legal information ............................................................................................................................. 160
Glossary ................................................................................................................................................. 161
5
About Penda Penda is a free, simple to use app combining financial, safety and legal information and
referrals for women who have experienced domestic and family violence (DFV)
considering separation or divorce. This booklet is a compilation of Penda App
information and referrals.
This booklet includes legal tips, information and referrals to services on DFV, child
support and parenting, housing and property settlement, visa and immigration, and
finances including emergency money, Centrelink and crisis payments, and managing
money and debt after separation or divorce.
The booklet is for women experiencing DFV in intimate relationships but may also be
helpful for women experiencing DFV in other types of relationships, or those who are
separating or going through divorce. Friends, family, employers and support
people can use this booklet help others.
Penda is a free tool to provide safety, legal and financial information and is not a
replacement for a lawyer, social worker or crisis service.
Penda was developed by Women’s Legal Service Queensland in collaboration with
Financial Rights Legal Centre with funding from Financial Literacy Australia. Penda is
supported by Credit Union Australia.
Disclaimer Penda contains legal information that is current at August 2017. It is always important
to obtain legal advice about your particular circumstances from a solicitor. Laws and
legal practice can change so it is important to obtain up to date legal advice.
This content is meant as a guide only. We do not accept responsibility for any loss
suffered by those relying on this information.
Penda is protected by Australian Copyright Law. All rights reserved.
Words that appears in this font and colour link to other sections of this document.
Words that appear in this font and colour have definitions in the glossary section at the back of this booklet.
6
Other languages
Penda is currently only available in English. If you need help in other languages, call:
Translating and Interpreting Service
To call 1800 RESPECT for free in your language. Open all day, every day.
131 450
1800 RESPECT
Open all day, every day.
1800 737 732
Español – ¿Qué es 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/spanish/ Français – Qu’est-ce que 1800RESPECT ? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/french/
বাাংলা – 1800RESPECT কি?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/bengali/
Hrvatski – Što je 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/croatian/
Thuɔŋjäŋ – Ye akut de 1800RESPECT? Ŋö?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/dinka/
Ελληνικά – Τι είναι η υπηρεσία 1800RESPECT; https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/greek/
हिन्दी – 1800RESPECT क्या िै?
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Italiano – Che cos’è 1800RESPECT?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/hindi/
한국어 – 1800RESPECT은 어떤 곳입니까?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/korean/
ພາສາລາວ – 1800ແຣສເປັກ (1800RESPECT) ແມ່ນຫຍັງ? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/lao/
Македонски – Што е тоа 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/macedonian/
Polski – Czym jest 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/polish/
Português – O que é o 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/portuguese/
Српски – Шта је 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/serbian/
Tagalog – Ano ang 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/tagalog/
தமிழ் – 1800RESPECT என்றால் என்ன? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/tamil/
Tetun – Saida mak 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/tetum/
ภาษาไทยI – อะไรคือ 1800RESPECT?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/thai/
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Türkçe – 1800RESPECT nedir? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/turkish/
Tiếng Việt – 1800RESPECT là gì? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/vietnamese/
简体中文 – 什么是 1800RESPECT?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/simplified-chinese/
繁體中文 – 何為 1800RESPECT? https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/traditional-chinese/
ខ្មែរ – ត ើអ្វតីៅជា1800RESPECT?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/khmer/
Bahasa Indonesia – Apa itu 1800RESPECT?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/indonesian/
؟1800RESPECT هي ما
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/arabic/
ست؟ چه1800RESPECT – دری ا
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/dari/
سی ار ست؟ 1800RESPECT – ف ی چ
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/farsi/
یا 1800RESPECT – اردو ہے؟ ک
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/urdu/
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For other services, see culturally and linguistically diverse services.
Acknowledgements
Penda was developed by Women’s Legal Service Queensland in collaboration with
Financial Rights Legal Centre with funding from Financial Literacy Australia. We would
like to thank those who made Penda possible.
We thank Credit Union of Australia for their support of Penda. We thank Penda App
Ambassadors, 1800 RESPECT, Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner (eSafety
Women), WIRE Women’s Information, Australian Securities and Investments
Commission (ASIC), Working Women’s Queensland, each individual state and territory
tenancy advice service, Dorothy Fauls, Teaghan Bankier, Bella Impiazzi, front line
services with whom we consulted and everyone who participated in focus groups and
user testing for their contributions to Penda.
We also thank the services that contributed to the creation and distribution of Penda:
Ruby 6 Graphic Design, TLC Media, Australian Bankers Association, Goliath
Productions, Clayton Utz, SDA National, National Retailers Association,
Commonwealth Bank of Australia, the Ithaca Group, Beau Rushton – App Developer,
and WLS staff and volunteers.
Finally, thank you to all the brave women who continue to inspire and inform us.
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Safety
If you, a child or another person are in immediate danger, you should call the police
now on 000.
This section provides information about personal safety, how to make a safety plan,
and how to be safe when using technology.
Do you need help?
You should consider your safety if there has been domestic and family violence (DFV) in
your relationship, you feel unsafe, you are planning to separate or you have just
separated.
Separation can be a dangerous time for you and your children. Read Are you at risk of harm?
If it is safe, you can contact a support service to:
Talk things through confidentially
Get referrals
Help you make a safety plan if you feel unsafe
Help you make a safety plan if you decide to stay or leave
Help you make a money safety plan to leave
Help you get into a refuge or safe housing.
If it is unsafe for you to access a support service, you should read safety plan before separation and safety plan after separation.
You know your situation best and you should trust your instincts if you feel unsafe.
Only you can choose what to do, but knowing about your rights, options, and how to
act safely will help you make the best decision for you and your children.
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Are you at risk of harm?
Some types of behaviour have been linked to an increased risk of serious injury and
death in intimate relationships where there is a history of domestic and family violence (DFV). These risk factors may be present in other types of relationships.
This section does not list all of the risk factors linked to serious injury and death.
Risk factors include:
Strangulation or choking
Access to weapons
Threats to kill you
Threats to burn down your house
Your (ex) partner threatens to harm themselves
Genuine fear your (ex) partner will carry out these threats
Separation
Increase in frequency and severity of violence
Stalking
Extreme sexual jealousy
Abuse of children and pets
Controlling behaviour
If you are planning to separate and any of these behaviours are present in your
relationship, you could be in danger.
If you feel unsafe, you should get support to help you assess your risk and make a
safety plan. This is not a substitute for a risk assessment.
Your safety at court
If you are worried about your safety at court, you should let your lawyer, support
person, and the court know so they can help you. This may also be a part of your
safety plan.
If you are going to court for a family law matter, you should contact the Family Law
Court of Australia or Federal Circuit Court of Australia at least five days before you
have to go to court.
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1300 352 000 [email protected]
Live Chat under ‘Online Services’:
Family Court of Australia – Live chat
http://www.familycourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fcoaweb/home Federal Circuit Court of Australia – Live chat
http://www.federalcircuitcourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fccweb/home
For more information, see:
Federal Circuit Court – Safety Brochure
http://www.federalcircuitcourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/ca65dbb5-517a-46cc-85a1-82799c193e51/FearsforSafety_0315V2.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CONVERT_TO=url&CACHEID=ROOTWORKSPACE-ca65dbb5-517a-46cc-85a1-82799c193e51-llWYb0M
If you are going to court for a domestic and family violence matter, you should:
Contact your local police service and the court before your court date to find
out how they can help you. Tell them about your safety concerns
Bring a support person with you
Contact a support service to help you make a safety plan
Contact your local victim support service and find out about the court
process and any available support.
Victim Support Services
ACT
Victim Support ACT
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm.
1800 822 272 (02) 6205 2066 [email protected]
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https://www.victimsupport.act.gov.au/home
NSW
Victims Services NSW
Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 6pm.
Victims Access Line
1800 633 063
Aboriginal Contact Line
1800 019 123 [email protected] http://www.victimsservices.justice.nsw.gov.au/
NT
Victims of Crime NT
Open Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm.
1800 672 242 https://victimsofcrime.org.au/
QLD
Victims Assist QLD
Open Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5pm.
1300 546 587 [email protected] https://www.qld.gov.au/law/crime-and-police/victims-and-witnesses-of-crime
SA
Victim Support Service SA
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm.
1800 842 846 [email protected] http://www.victimsa.org/get-help
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TAS
Victims Support Service TAS
1300 663 773 (03) 6165 7524 [email protected] http://www.justice.tas.gov.au/victims
VIC
Victims of Crime VIC
Open 8am – 11pm, 7 days a week.
1800 819 817 [email protected] http://www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/home/
WA
Victims of Crime WA
Open 8.30am – 4.30pm, Monday – Friday.
1800 818 988 [email protected] http://www.victimsofcrime.wa.gov.au/default.aspx
Do you need a safety plan before separation?
Before you take your next steps to separate, think about whether you need to plan for
you and your children’s safety. This is a guide only so you should only do what is safe
and comfortable for you. You should be careful about alerting your (ex) partner if you
take these steps.
If it is safe, you can:
Call a support service to help you with making a safety plan.
o If you cannot call a service, see:
1800 RESPECT: Escape bag checklist
https://www.1800respect.org.au/escape-bag-checklist/login
15
Consider money and making a money safety plan.
Think about being safe when using technology such as your mobile phone
or tablet.
Get legal advice to find out your rights and options.
Decide where you will go. Do you have friends, family or neighbours you can
stay with and ask for help? Will you need to stay in a hotel or a refuge? Will you
need to call the police?
o If you do not have any safe housing options, see emergency housing. Decide how you will leave. Will you leave by foot, car or taxi, or with a friend?
Decide how you will find, store and take things with you such as leaving an
overnight bag in the car or with a friend. You should take:
o Your documents (see below)
o Medication for you and your children
o Some cash (enough to cover your living expenses for a few weeks)
o Your valuables (items of sentimental value, jewellery, and photographs)
o Your car keys (take all sets of keys)
o Your children’s special possessions
o Your pets
o All of your devices, including tablets, laptops and phones
o Your household goods—keep a list of what you take
o If you take any property that is in joint names or your (ex) partner’s name
(such as money from joint accounts or a car), it is advisable that you write
and send a letter, email or text to your (ex) partner after you have left (if
safe), explaining that you have taken the item and that it is part of the
property settlement and will be dealt with then. Keep a copy of what
you send.
o You should get legal advice before you do this. Any money from joint
accounts should be spent on reasonable living expenses and you should
keep track of how you spend this money. For more information,
see property settlement.
Try to make arrangements for your pets, work and childcare.
Be careful what documents you sign, even though you may have no choice to do
so. Try to remember what you sign and when.
Record the date you separate from your (ex) partner, or ask someone you trust
to help you remember. This date is important.
Get a safe postal address such as a ‘care of’ address, PO Box or arrange to
redirect your mail with Australia Post (free for one year).
16
Australia Post – Redirect your mail
https://auspost.com.au/receiving/manage-your-mail/redirect-hold-mail/redirect-mail/free-mail-redirection
For more support, visit a doctor or a counselling service. This may also help later
with recording and gathering evidence.
What information will you need?
Before you leave, try to get important information and documents that you may need
later. You should get these documents on different days and at different times to avoid
alerting your (ex) partner. Only do this if it is safe for you.
You can copy or photograph the documents, give them to a friend, store them in a safe
physical place, or on a storage device (like a USB), or online storage account linked to a
safe email address.
This can help your future financial security. For tips to help you plan and collect
evidence, see:
eSafety – SmartSafe app
http://www.smartsafe.org.au/help-advice/women/our-smartsafe-app eSafety – Collecting evidence
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/take-control/esafety-planning/collecting-evidence
You may need copies of certain documents for you and your children, such as:
Identification, including your own, your children’s and your (ex) partner’s
Birth certificates
Marriage certificate and any wills
Driver’s licence and car registration papers
Citizenship papers, passport or visa and immigration documents
Centrelink paperwork and reference numbers
Credit cards, bank cards and bank statements
Medicare and health care cards, medical records, and immunisation records
Tax file numbers and tax statements
17
Payslips and your (ex) partner’s income and salary package statements and
superannuation statements. If your (ex) partner does cash-in-hand work, find
out as much as you can about where they go for work, how often (pattern of
hours), make and model of their car, how much money they make and who their
clients are.
Property deeds, mortgage or title documents
Other financial documents such as loan documents
Court documents
Do you need a safety plan after separation?
If you have already separated from your (ex) partner, think about whether you need to
plan for you and your children’s safety. This is a guide only so you should only do what is
safe and comfortable for you.
If it is safe, you can:
Call a support service to help you with making a safety plan.
Consider money and making a money safety plan.
Try to make arrangements with work and childcare.
Get legal advice to find out your rights and options.
If you are not in safe housing, see emergency housing.
Record the date you separated from your (ex) partner, or ask someone you trust
to help you remember. This date is important.
If you are staying in the home you shared with your (ex) partner, think about
how your (ex) partner can access your home:
o Change the locks
o Install sensor lights, window bars, locks, an alarm and chain on your
doors
o Make sure you have working fire alarms and a fire extinguisher
o Secure access to your electricity/water meter
o Put padlocks and chains on your gates
Think about your safety when using technology.
o Turn off tracking on your phone (for example Google Maps or Find my
iPhone)
o Update your social media account: update your privacy settings, have a
non-identifying photo, change your city, do not post personal details and
do not allow tagging
18
o Turn off or cover your webcam
o Password protect your accounts
Provide copies of any court documents to the below agencies. Ask these
agencies not to provide your personal details to your (ex) partner and to update
your safe contact details.
o School and childcare
o Employers
o Utility companies
o Online accounts linked to previous joint accounts. For example, travel
cards that are automatically topped up
o Mobile phone company (you can change your number for free)
o Banks (your (ex) partner can track you through the use of ATMs, EFTPOS
and any services such eToll, eTag and public transport if linked to their
account or the joint account)
o Centrelink and myGov (use the myGov app or go into a Centrelink office)
o Doctor (including immunisation register) and dentist surgery
o Medicare
o Insurance companies (health, car, home and contents, life, and funeral)
o Superannuation
o Department of Transport – update ownership details
o Australian Tax Office – tell them if you have separated
o Police
o Australian Electoral Commission (you can be a silent elector)
o Any support services you have been in contact with
o Pets (check the microchip register):
Pet Address
http://www.petaddress.com.au/
You can get new copies of important documents from the relevant agency such
as your state or territory Births, Deaths and Marriages registry, Australian Tax
Office and Passport Office. You may have to pay.
If you took any property that was in joint names or your (ex) partner’s name
(such as money from joint accounts or a car), it is advisable that you write and
send a letter, email or text to your (ex) partner (if safe), explaining that you have
taken the item and that it is part of the property settlement and will be dealt
with then. Keep a copy of what you send.
19
You should get legal advice before you do this. Any money from joint accounts
should be spent on reasonable living expenses and you should keep track of
how you spend this money. For more information, see property settlement.
For a checklist, see:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Divorce and separation financial checklist
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/life-events-and-you/life-events/divorce-and-separation/divorce-and-separation-financial-checklist?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
Are you safe when using technology?
If you do not feel safe when using technology such as phones, computers, or email, you
might be at risk of technology abuse. This is a guide only.
To find out if you are at risk of technology abuse, see:
eSafety – Online abuse
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/take-control/online-abuse/red-flags-are-you-at-risk
Have your passwords stopped working? Someone might have hacked your
device and changed the passwords so that you cannot get into your accounts.
Have you been given a new computer or phone? Sometimes a phone with
location tracking is given to a child after separation, or you may receive offers to
‘fix’ your computer or phone.
Are you receiving abusive emails or texts from strangers or anonymous senders?
Have you found a fake social media account in your name?
Have you found evidence of unusual activity in your email account? For example,
you might have unread emails that you know you have read, or emails that have
been sent or deleted from your account, but not by you.
20
Has your computer started running very slowly? It could be caused by malware
and spyware running in the background.
Is your phone not working properly? Does it take too long to turn off, or does the
battery run out of power more quickly than it should? Your phone could have
tracking software on it that slows things down.
Does your (ex) partner know a lot about what you are doing? Does your (ex)
partner know more than they should about where you are, or who you are
talking to online, by email or text, or on the phone?
If you answered yes to some of the above and you feel unsafe, you should contact
a support service and read how to be safe when using technology.
To find out more information, see:
eSafety – Take control
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/take-control
WESNET – Safety net
http://wesnet.org.au/safetynet/safetynetdocs/
1800 RESPECT – Tech tips for increasing security
https://www.1800respect.org.au/get-help/tech-tips-for-increasing-security/
This content has been developed with permission from the Office of the Children’s
eSafety Commissioner. We thank them for allowing us to use this in Penda.
21
How to be safe when using technology This information might help you keep yourself and your children safe when using
technology. This is a guide only. You can:
Internet
Use the private browsing option.
Delete your browsing history.
Use the internet at a safe place, such as a trusted person’s place, internet cafe or
public library.
For more information, see:
eSafety – Internet
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/lifestyle/using-your-device/web-browsers
Devices
Set strong passcodes and passwords for all of your own devices and your
children’s devices, change your passwords frequently and do not share them
with anyone. Do not use birthdates, or the names of your children, pets or
favourite things. Use two words together with numbers or symbols (*&^) in the
middle of the words. If you are worried you might forget your new passwords,
leave a list of them with someone you trust or at a safe place, such as a trusted
person’s house.
Add passwords to all computers and laptops.
Add a new passcode to your phone or tablet and set your auto-lock to one or
two minutes.
Turn off location services on your phone and computer, and do not ‘check in’
through your social media accounts. If you think your (ex) partner is tracking
your location through your device, consider leaving the device at home as often
as you can, especially if you are going to a service, friend or to the police for
help.
22
For more information, see:
eSafety – Phones and tablets
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/lifestyle/know-your-device/phones-and-tablets
eSafety – Laptops and computers
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/lifestyle/know-your-device/laptops-and-computers
Use your old email accounts for normal use that will not make your (ex) partner
suspicious.
Create a new email account that does not include your real name; for example,
use [email protected], but not [email protected]. Use this email
for safety planning and when setting up any new bank accounts or contacting
Centrelink. If you need to use another email to verify your identity, use a
trusted friend or family member’s email and avoid using any email addresses or
phone numbers your (ex) partner may have access to.
Be careful about opening attachments in emails and messages.
For more information, see:
eSafety – Emails
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/lifestyle/using-your-device/email
Social Media
Be aware of your privacy when posting online—avoid posting identifying
information, including photos.
Block unknown or abusive people, and use the highest level security and privacy
settings on your accounts to make sure your posts are only seen by the people
you choose. Only add ‘friends’ you trust not to communicate with your (ex)
partner.
Use the privacy settings on your social media accounts.
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For more information, see:
eSafety – Social media safety tips
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/lifestyle/using-your-device/email
Spyware
Use a safe device for all important communication if you think spyware is on
your devices and your children’s devices. If possible, get a new device, even if it
is a very old or basic model, and get a prepaid service and make sure the bill is in
your name so it does not go to your (ex) partner. You can use your safe email
account instead.
Install anti-virus protection on all your devices and your children’s devices as
this can help block spyware.
Check which programs and software are loaded on your devices; remove any
that you did not put there yourself; seek help from a tech expert if you cannot
find or remove the unknown programs; if necessary do a ‘factory reset’ to send
the device back to ‘as new’ (remember to back up important data first).
If you are not confident your phone or computer is safe, find a safer phone or
computer. Consider using a public library computer or a trusted person’s
computer or device.
For more information, see:
Communications – Stay Smart Online
https://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/
SmartSafe
http://www.smartsafe.org.au/
Your next steps
You are in the best position to know if things are not right, and to take control of your
online experience. If something does not feel right, contact a support service for
help.
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For more information, see:
eSafety – Take control
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/take-control
WESNET – Safety net
http://wesnet.org.au/safetynet/safetynetdocs/
1800 RESPECT – Tech tips for increasing security
https://www.1800respect.org.au/get-help/tech-tips-for-increasing-security/
This content has been developed with permission from the Office of the Children’s
eSafety Commissioner. We thank them for allowing us to use this in Penda.
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Domestic and family violence This section provides information about domestic and family violence (DFV) that
may be relevant to you.
It is important to recognise that DFV can impact you and your children. If you find this
information too overwhelming or distressing, you should seek support at an
appropriate and safe time for you.
What is domestic and family violence?
DFV is abuse committed by one person against another person. It is about having
power and control over another person which causes fear and intimidation. The abuse
can occur in different ways.
It can happen in intimate relationships, family relationships or carer relationships.
The content of this app is related to intimate relationships but can be relevant for
other relationships.
There might be DFV in your intimate relationship if your (ex) partner monitors or
tracks you, makes you feel scared, fearful, intimidated or controlled, or otherwise
makes you feel unsafe.
What are the types of DFV?
We have listed some examples of abuse you and your children might have experienced.
If you are unsure about your relationship, or want to talk to someone about your
experience, you can get support.
Your ex (partner) might coerce or control you by:
o Following you (stalking you)
o Knowing where you are all the time
o Going into your personal information, such as your email account
o Harassing you with calls, texts or emails
o Preventing you from seeing your friends or family
Your ex (partner) might financially abuse you by:
o Giving you a small budget or no money at all
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o Controlling your finances
o Monitoring your spending
o Stopping you from working or studying
o Stopping you from making financial decisions
o Stopping you from accessing bank accounts, cash, pensions or benefits
o Demanding money from you
o Keeping your property
o Forcing you to sign documents and take on debts
Your (ex) partner might emotionally or psychologically abuse you by:
o Manipulating you
o Emotionally blackmailing you
o Threatening to release intimate images or videos of you
o Threatening to ‘out’ you if you are in a same sex relationship
o Playing ‘mind games’ to make you think you are crazy – this is called
gaslighting
o Making threats to kill or harm themselves to control your behaviour
Your (ex) partner might neglect you if they are your carer by:
o Refusing to help you with your daily tasks such as not caring for you or
not taking you to your appointments
o Helping you with your daily tasks in a hurtful way
o Keeping your medication from you
o Insisting on going into your appointments with you against your wishes
Your (ex) partner might physically abuse you by:
o Hitting, punching, shoving, kicking, flogging or bashing you
o Spitting at you
o Strangling or choking you
o Damaging property and your disability aids such as wheelchairs
o Hurting your pets
Your (ex) partner might try and control your reproductive choices by:
o Forcing you to fall pregnant or to terminate a pregnancy
o Forcing you to use or not use birth control
Your (ex) partner might sexually abuse you by:
o Touching you or kissing you without your consent
o Forcing you to have sex
o Forcing you to do something that you do not want to do
Your (ex) partner might spiritually abuse you by:
o Forcing you to join a group
o Stopping you from practicing your faith
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o Stopping you from participating in your culture
o Speaking badly about you in your community
Your (ex) partner might socially abuse you by:
o Keeping you from your friends or family
o Not allowing you to contact your friends or family
o Humiliating or shaming you in public
Your (ex) partner might use systems to abuse you by:
o Repeatedly threatening to or taking you to court
o Threatening to use or manipulate the legal system against you, such as
threatening to deport you
o Threatening to report you to the authorities, such as the Child Support
Agency to reduce or prevent your payment
Your (ex) partner might use technology to abuse you by:
o Sharing or threatening to share intimate photos of you (image based
abuse)
o Tracking you on your devices
o Putting spyware on your devices
Your (ex) partner might use threats and intimidation to make you feel
fearful by:
o Making threats to commit DFV
o Trying to intimidate you by standing over you for example
Your (ex) partner might verbally abuse by:
o Using bad or offensive language towards you
o Name calling
o Putting you down
o Yelling or screaming at you
You have a right to feel safe. These behaviours can extend into other areas of your life
such as your work life. These behaviours are not part of a healthy relationship and you
can separate at any time. Read safety for more information.
What is a domestic and family violence order? See Legal: Domestic and family violence orders.
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Money This section provides information about money that may be relevant to you. You may
have problems with money because of financial abuse.
You can get support and legal advice to help you.
Emergency Money There are services that can help you if you need emergency money to pay for food, bills
or transport, and if you are experiencing severe financial hardship.
Community organisations
To find your closest community organisation, you can:
Contact the Department of Social Services and ask to be put through to your
local emergency relief service or select ‘financial crisis’ and ‘material aid’.
Monday – Friday, 8.30am – 5pm
1300 653 227
http://serviceproviders.dss.gov.au/
Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and referrals through the
National Debt Helpline.
o Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
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ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Centrelink
Contact Centrelink to find out if you are eligible for any benefits or crisis payments.
You need to act quickly because there are time limits; you have to apply for crisis
payments within seven days of the crisis event.
These payments should go into a bank account that is in your name only. It will help to
talk with a Centrelink social worker and tell them that you are experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV).
13 28 50
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/dhs/centrelink
No interest loan scheme (NILS)
If you have a health care card or pension card, you may be able to borrow some money
through the no interest loan scheme (NILS). NILS can lend money ($300 – $1,200) for
household goods and education essentials.
136 457
http://nils.com.au/
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Money safety plan
This section provides information about putting together a money safety plan to
help build a better financial future for you and your children. Your next steps will
depend on what is safe for you. This is a guide only.
You can take these steps whether you stay in the relationship or leave the relationship
but you should be careful about alerting your (ex) partner to what you are doing.
Do you need a money safety plan before separation?
If it is safe for you, you can:
Call a domestic violence support service to help you make a money safety plan.
o If you cannot call a service, see:
1800 RESPECT: Escape bag checklist
https://www.1800respect.org.au/escape-bag-checklist/login
Gather and/or copy personal documents and keep them in a safe place. Before
you do this, read safety plan – before. If it is not safe to do this, try and
remember what is written in the documents. This will help you to get the best
possible advice later.
Change your banking details.
o Open a new account in your name only and put a small amount of money
away. This can be done online or at a branch. Make sure any letters they
send you will go to a safe address.
o Find a safe place to keep money and other valuables; give it to a trusted
friend or family member or put it in a safe place.
o See banking.
Be careful about getting any loans and taking on any debt (in case you cannot
afford to repay it). If your (ex) partner forces you get a loan, try to remember
what you sign and when. See loans.
Check your credit report regularly to see whether your partner has any debt in
your name. See credit reports. Please note: if you check your credit report,
your updated contact details will be provided to your creditors.
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Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt
Helpline
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
Do you need a money safety plan immediately after separation?
If it is safe for you, you can:
Call a domestic violence support service to help you make a money safety plan.
Gather and/or copy personal documents and keep them in a safe place. Before
you do this, read safety plan – before. If it is not safe to do this, try and
remember what is written in the documents. This will help you get the best
possible advice.
Get access to money. This is very important. See emergency money.
Protect or change important passwords and security questions, PINs, and tax
file numbers for all accounts. Disconnect your (ex) partner’s device from your
accounts. See safety when using technology to find out how to do this
safely.
Change your mailing addresses (email and postal). You should then update the
relevant organisations and tell them about your safety concerns. See safety plan – after.
Banking
o Open a new bank account.
o Update the bank about your situation and give them your new contact
details.
o Make sure your income and any payments go into this account.
o See banking. Check any joint accounts and line of credit/redraw facilities. Think about
‘freezing’ (putting on hold) joint accounts. Ask the bank to get both account
holder’s signatures before anyone can withdraw money.
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If you have a credit card in your name, cancel any additional cards. See credit cards.
If your name is not on the title of the property and you have been contributing
to the home, think about lodging a caveat to protect your interest in the home.
o Get legal advice if you think your (ex) partner will sell or transfer the
property.
Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt
Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
Learn how to budget and manage your money. See confidence with money.
For more information, read money.
Banking
This section provides information about deposit accounts (for example, a savings or
cheque account). Information about credit cards, loans and mortgages are in other
sections in money.
Tips
Read:
ASIC’s Money Smart – Banking
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/banking
Tell your bank that you are experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV) if you feel safe and comfortable to do so
Ask the bank what they can do to help you
Tell the bank that your information must be kept confidential
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Do you have your own bank account?
After you separate, you should update your contact details with the bank and in
your online accounts. Disconnect your (ex) partner’s device from your accounts.
If you do not have your own bank account, think about opening an account in
your own name if it is safe. This can be done online or at a branch. Make sure
that your new account is at a different bank and branch than your (ex) partner’s.
You will need to show identification (100 points). You can ask the bank what
they will need.
Department of Human Services – Confirm your identity
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/enablers/confirm-your-identity
You should think about having a safe PIN, password and security questions.
Read tech safety to find out how to do this.
Your Centrelink payments and income should go into your new account.
Update any direct debit payments so that they come out of your new account.
Do you have a joint account?
Your (ex) partner can track your use of ATMs and other EFTPOS payments if
you use the joint account.
You should tell the bank you have separated, and if you have experienced DFV.
If you have a joint account with your (ex) partner, you should check the
authorisations for the account. If you have moved your money and income into
another account you can leave the account as joint. If you want to protect
money in a joint account, ask the bank to change the access requirements so
both account holders have to agree to access the account, both at the branch
and online. Your (ex) partner will be told about this change, so make sure you
are safe.
If you take money from the joint account, you should put it in your own account.
This money should be spent on reasonable living items and you should keep
track of how you spend it.
If your joint account is overdrawn or there is an overdraft and you are
struggling to repay it, you can contact the bank and ask about financial hardship assistance.
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For more information about contacting and dealing with banks, see:
Doing it tough – Contact your bank
http://www.doingittough.info/Contact-your-bank.html
Centrelink and child support
This section provides information about Centrelink and child support.
Tips
If you are safe and feel comfortable, you can tell them that you are experiencing
domestic and family violence (DFV) and update them about your new
circumstances, contact details and your safety concerns
Password protect your myGov account and disconnect your (ex) partner’s
device from your accounts
Separate your Job Network account from Centrelink so your (ex) partner
cannot find your contact details
Update your Medicare card and children’s health and immunisation records
Centrelink payments
To find out if you could be eligible for any payments, you should:
Contact Centrelink to find out more information:
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/dhs/centrelink
Go into a Centrelink office and speak with a social worker. Tell them you are
experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV), financial hardship, and that you may be separating and have safety concerns.
Apply as soon as possible as there are time limits for some payments. Read crisis payments.
Make sure the payments go into a bank account in your name only.
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If you are receiving Centrelink payments, you should:
Tell Centrelink about any changes in your circumstances as soon as possible.
Make sure your payments go into a bank account in your name only.
Ask Centrelink to disconnect your (ex) partner’s device from your accounts.
Go into a Centrelink office and speak with a social worker and say that you are
experiencing DFV, financial hardship, and that you may be separating and have
safety concerns.
Act quickly as there are time limits for some payments. Read crisis payments.
If you are struggling with your money, you can ask to speak with a Centrelink
Information Service Officer.
Crisis Payments
For more information about crisis payments, see:
Department of Human Services – Crisis payments
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centrelink/crisis-payment
If you receive Centrelink payments, you may be able to get a Centrelink crisis
payment if you are experiencing severe financial hardship because of
domestic and family violence (DFV). Centrelink has criteria that you must
satisfy to get this payment.
It is helpful to speak with a social worker and say that you are experiencing
DFV and financial hardship.
To get a crisis payment you have to contact Centrelink within seven days of the
crisis event. You then have to apply for the payment within 14 days of contacting
Centrelink.
You should register your intention to claim a crisis payment with Centrelink
ahead of time. You can do this by calling Centrelink:
13 28 50
You can apply for crisis payments four times a year.
If you have any problems with getting this payment you should contact a
support service.
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Child Support
If you already receive Centrelink payments, Centrelink might say that you have
to ask for child support from the other parent.
If there is domestic and family violence (DFV), it might not be safe for you
to ask for child support from the other parent. You can ask Centrelink for an
exemption so that you do not have to ask the other parent. You can always
change your mind later.
It will help to go into a Centrelink office to speak with a social worker and tell
them if you are experiencing DFV.
The other parent may ask for child support from you if the children are living
with them. If this happens, you can get legal advice or speak with the Child
Support Agency and Centrelink.
You can contact the Child Support Agency:
131 272
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/contact-us/phone-us#childsupport
Read Child support
Centrelink debt and fraud
You may have a Centrelink debt because of financial abuse.
If you did not tell Centelink about changes in your circumstances, you may have
to pay back your Centrelink debt. For example, if you were getting single
parenting payments, but you started living with your (ex) partner again and did
not tell Centrelink. You may be able to appeal (challenge) Centrelink’s decision
if it was incorrectly made. You should get legal advice.
If you have a debt because of domestic and family violence (DFV), you can
ask Centrelink to waive the debt.
If Centrelink charges you with fraud (a criminal offence) because of the debt,
you should get legal advice as soon as possible, especially before you talk to
or see Centrelink.
To find a free financial counsellor for help with the debt, contact the National
Debt Helpline:
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o Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, you should let
the counsellor know. They can tell you about specific services.
Employment and Study Are you an employer?
If you are an employer, you must meet workplace health and safety and industrial
obligations when responding to situations of domestic and family violence (DFV).
You can support employees by helping them maintain employment so they can be safe
and financially secure.
What can I do?
You can learn about best practice responses to support employees experiencing
DFV by contacting DV Work Aware, a Working Women’s Centre in your state
or territory, or the Fair Work Ombudsman.
An example of a best practice response is having up-to-date referral
information about local and crisis support services.
For information about services, see employment.
Are you an employee?
Experiencing DFV can lead to under-performing at work, needing to take leave or have
flexible work arrangements, or requiring safety measures whilst at work. This may
affect your ability to work and to build your financial security.
What can I do?
If you do not feel comfortable talking to your employer and asking for support,
you can contact DV Work Aware for support.
If you do feel comfortable talking to your employer, ask your human resources
department or your supervisor if your workplace has a DFV policy.
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Your workplace does not need to know the details of your situation, but may ask
for a letter from your doctor, social worker or lawyer saying that you are
experiencing DFV. This can help to explain your circumstances and why you
may need to make some changes.
If you are having problems with your workplace, you can contact your union, DV
Work Aware, a Working Women’s Centre in your state or territory, or another
service for further support and advice.
If you are not currently working, you can read how to increase your confidence with money to find out how to get back into the workforce and
seek support.
For information about services, see employment.
Are you a student?
Your place of study may have a counselling or support service to provide you with
support.
Financial Hardship What is financial hardship?
Financial hardship happens when you do not have enough money to pay your
bills, loans and debts when they are due. This may have happened because of financial abuse and domestic and family violence (DFV).
How can I apply for help?
If you are having trouble making repayments or paying your bills, you can contact your
utility provider or bank and find out about their financial hardship assistance programs
to help you.
If you are safe and feel comfortable, you can also tell them that you are experiencing
DFV.
You can speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt
Helpline:
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Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know. They can tell you about specific services. You can also contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
If you have problems with your lender, your request for a financial hardship
arrangement can be reviewed. You can make a complaint to a free dispute resolution
scheme.
General
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
Electricity, gas and water
ACT
ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal
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(02) 6207 1740
https://www.acat.act.gov.au/
NSW
Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW
1800 246 545
https://www.ewon.com.au/
NT
Ombudsman NT
1800 806 380
http://www.ombudsman.nt.gov.au/
QLD
Energy and Water Ombudsman QLD
1800 662 837
http://www.ewoq.com.au/
SA
Energy Industry Ombudsman SA
1800 665 565
http://www.ewosa.com.au/
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TAS
Energy Ombudsman TAS
1800 001 170
http://www.energyombudsman.tas.gov.au/
VIC
Energy and Water Ombudsman VIC
1800 500 509
https://www.ewov.com.au/
WA
Energy and Water Ombudsman WA
1800 117 000
http://www.ombudsman.wa.gov.au/
Loans
This section includes information about debts. You may have debts that either you,
your (ex) partner, or both of you are liable for. Debts can be part of the property
settlement pool. You may have debt because of domestic and family violence (DFV).
For more information about debts, see:
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ASIC’s MoneySmart – Managing debts
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/managing-debts/trouble-with-debt#talk?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
Business Debts
If you have business debts, you may need legal advice from a private solicitor. The
business may form part of the property settlement.
You should get legal advice if you are worried that you may be responsible for any
business debts or if the business is still operating and you have signed loans or
guarantees.
You can contact your state or territory law society to find a private solicitor.
ACT
ACT Law Society
(02) 6274 0300
https://www.actlawsociety.asn.au/
NSW
NSW Law Society
(02) 9926 0333
https://www.lawsociety.com.au/
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NT
Law Society NT
(08) 8981 5104
http://lawsocietynt.asn.au/
QLD
QLD Law Society
1300 367 757
https://www.qls.com.au/Home
SA
Law Society of SA
(08) 8229 0200
https://www.lawsocietysa.asn.au/
TAS
Law Society of TAS
(03) 6234 4133
http://lst.org.au/
VIC
Law Institute of VIC
(03) 9607 9311
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https://www.liv.asn.au/
WA
Law Society of WA
(08) 9324 8600
https://www.lawsocietywa.asn.au/
Car Loans This section provides information about car loans.
Is the loan in both of your names?
If the loan is in both of your names and you have the car, your (ex) partner may
stop making payments and the car may be repossessed (taken back by the
lender). If you want to keep the car, you will need to make payments or make an
affordable repayment plan with the loan company and your (ex) partner, if it is
safe.
If the loan is in both of your names and your (ex) partner has the car but is still
making payments, you could monitor the loan by getting statements sent to you.
While the loan is being repaid you are not at risk of debt collection or a
default being listed on your credit report.
If your (ex) partner is not making payments, the car will be repossessed (taken
back by the lender) and sold. You may need to make a repayment plan for any
unpaid debt or apply for a waiver.
Speak with a free financial counsellor for help through the National Debt
Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
45
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should tell the
counsellor. They can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
You should get legal advice if:
o You could not afford the loan when it was first given to you
o The loan money was used by someone else
o You or your (ex) partner have a lease over the car rather than a loan
IMPORTANT: If the lender is threatening to repossess your car, you can make a
complaint to a free dispute resolution scheme to stop this from happening. The
lender cannot repossess the car while your dispute is being considered.
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
Is the loan in your (ex) partner’s name only?
If the loan is in your (ex) partner’s name only, and they have the car, your (ex)
partner is responsible for payments.
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If the loan is in your (ex) partner’s name only and you have the car, your (ex)
partner may stop making payments and the car may be repossessed (taken
back by the lender). You may be able to negotiate with your (ex) partner about
this, if it is safe.
If you can afford to pay the loan and you have the car, you may want to make
the payments so you can keep the car. You should think about getting the car
registered into your name. Your (ex) partner may need to agree to this.
Is the loan in your name only?
If the car loan is in your name only, you are responsible for payments.
If you can no longer afford the payments, ask the lender if you can make an affordable
repayment plan.
You can tell the lender that you are experiencing financial hardship because of
domestic and family violence (DFV). You should keep making the payments you
can afford.
You can ask for an affordable repayment plan where:
You make smaller payments or stop your payments for a short time and pay
more later
You make smaller payments and pay off your loan over a longer time
You will need to either start making your usual payments again after a few months, or
finish paying the loan in a reasonable time. If you cannot afford the loan, you may need
to think about surrendering the car (giving it back to the lender).
If the lender will not agree to a repayment plan or the lender is threatening
to repossess your car (take it back), you can make a complaint to a free dispute resolution scheme to stop this from happening. The car cannot be repossessed
while your dispute is being considered.
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
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Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
You can speak with a free financial counsellor for help negotiating with your lender
through the National Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should tell the
counsellor. They can tell you about specific services. You can also contact:
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
If you no longer have the car, or do not want it, you can tell the lender that the car can
be repossessed (taken back). If your (ex) partner has the car, you should think about
your safety before you do this and get legal advice.
If the car is repossessed (or given back to the lender) you may still have a debt. If you
cannot afford to pay this debt, follow the same steps as for when you cannot afford
your payments. You may also be able to apply for a waiver of the debt, depending on
your financial situation.
Consumer leases
A consumer lease is a contract that lets you rent an item (like a laptop or mobile phone)
for a period of time, usually between one and four years. You make regular rental
payments (usually fortnightly) until the lease ends.
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For more information about consumer leases, see:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Consumer leases
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/borrowing-and-credit/other-types-of-credit/consumer-leases?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
You should get advice about your consumer lease if:
You could not afford the lease when it was first given to you
The goods have been lost, stolen or pawned
When you got the lease, the goods were for someone else (not you)
You can tell the lender if you are in financial hardship because of domestic and family violence (DFV), and ask to make an affordable repayment plan.
If the lender will not agree to a repayment plan or the lender is threatening to
repossess your goods (take them back), you can make a complaint to a free dispute resolution scheme to stop this from happening. The goods cannot be repossessed
while your dispute is being considered.
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
If you cannot afford your repayments, speak with a free financial counsellor for help
through the National Debt Helpline
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
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1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Credit cards
This section provides information about credit cards. For more information about
credit cards, see:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Credit cards
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/borrowing-and-credit/credit-cards?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
When you have a credit card, you can either be the primary cardholder, the secondary
cardholder, or a joint cardholder. If you do not know which type of cardholder you are,
you should call the lender.
Are you the primary cardholder?
If you are the primary cardholder, you owe the debt.
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If your (ex) partner has a secondary card, you should cancel it. You can ask the
lender to cancel the card. You should write down who you spoke to and when.
You can tell the lender if you are in financial hardship because of domestic and family violence (DFV) and ask to make an affordable repayment
plan. You can speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the
National Debt Helpline:
o Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Are you the secondary cardholder?
If you are the secondary cardholder, you do not owe the debt and do not need
to make repayments.
If your (ex) partner or the lender is pressuring you to make payments, you can
speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt
Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
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o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Are you a joint cardholder?
If you are a joint cardholder, you jointly owe the debt. This means if the other
joint cardholder does not pay, you owe the outstanding balance.
You can tell the lender if you are in financial hardship because of domestic and family violence (DFV) and ask to make an affordable repayment plan.
You can speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the
National Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
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1300 365 957
Are you having trouble making credit card payments?
You can ask your lender for help if you cannot afford your payments because of
financial hardship.
Read information about financial hardship.
You can negotiate an affordable repayment plan with the lender. Lenders will
think about long-term repayment plans on credit cards.
The lender may agree to stop charging interest for a period of time if you are
experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV). If your only income is from Centrelink (and your financial situation will not
change), you have no significant assets, and you cannot afford the payments,
you may be able to get the debt waived.
If you ask for financial hardship help and the lender does not agree, or if the
lender is threatening to take legal action, you can make a complaint to a free
dispute resolution scheme. This will also stop the lender starting court
proceedings while the dispute is being considered. If you have already received a
statement of claim or summons from a court, you will need to act as soon as
possible.
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
If you cannot afford any of your payments, speak with a free financial
counsellor for help through the National Debt Helpline:
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Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Joint debts
Any debts that you and your (ex) partner get throughout your relationship can be a
part of the property settlement pool.
Be careful about taking on any relationship debt where you might have to pay
for your (ex) partner’s debts. For more information, see:
WIRE Women’s Information – Money and debt
https://www.wire.org.au/money-and-debt/
If you have joint debts, you can ask for a financial hardship agreement
without the other person agreeing. You should get legal advice if someone
tells you that you need the other person’s consent.
If you have a joint loan, this means that you are named on the loan contract
along with someone else, and you are both responsible for the debt. If the other
person does not make repayments, you can be responsible for the whole loan.
The lender should not ask you to contact your (ex) partner after you have told
them about any domestic and family violence (DFV). If the lender does ask
you to contact your (ex) partner and you do not feel safe to do so, tell the lender
you cannot do this and get legal advice.
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If you are not named on the loan contract as a borrower or debtor and you
are not a guarantor that means you are not liable for that debt.
You should get legal advice.
Mortgages
This section provides information about mortgages. You should get legal advice
about your mortgage and read property settlement.
You can ask the lender if you own the property or are the borrower on the mortgage.
You are a borrower on the mortgage Tips
Contact your lender about your options
Contact the National Debt Helpline
Get legal advice
This section provides information about what you can do if your name is on the
mortgage. If your name is on the mortgage, it means you have to make the mortgage
payments.
If you stop making the mortgage payments, the lender may repossess the mortgaged
property. You may be able to come to an agreement with your (ex) partner about the
repayments as part of your property settlement.
What can you do?
You should cancel the redraw facility or change it so the lender will need the
signatures of both borrowers. A redraw facility means you or your (ex) partner can
borrow more money and add it to the mortgage. If you are not sure whether your
mortgage allows this, you should contact your lender to find out.
You should get legal advice if:
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You have received a default notice and 30 days have passed since the date of
the notice
You have received a statement of claim or summons
The lender is threatening court action to repossess your home
Tell the lender if you are in financial hardship because of domestic and family violence (DFV) and ask to make an affordable repayment plan. You can make a
request for financial hardship without the joint debtor agreeing. You should get legal
advice if the lender says you need the co-borrower to agree.
When you talk to your lender, you can ask to:
Reduce your payments temporarily
Reduce your payments until you can afford the usual repayments which means
it will take longer to pay off your loan
Make a payment plan while the home is sold
If the lender will not agree to a repayment plan or is threatening to repossess your
home, you can make a complaint to a free dispute resolution scheme to review
this decision. This will also stop the lender starting court proceedings while the dispute
is being considered, providing the lender has not obtained a court judgment. Get legal advice.
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
Tell the lender you are getting advice and contact the National Debt Helpline to speak
with a free financial counsellor:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
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1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the counsellor
know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
For more information, see:
Legal Aid NSW – Mortgage Stress Handbook
http://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/publications/factsheets-and-resources/mortgage-stress-handbook
You are not the owner of the property or a borrower on the mortgage
What should you do?
If your name is not on the mortgage documents, you are not legally responsible
for the mortgage.
If you have been contributing to the home, you should think about lodging a
caveat to protect your possible interest in the home. You should get legal advice about this as soon as possible, especially if you think your (ex) partner
will sell, transfer or destroy the property.
The property may form part of the property settlement pool.
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Personal Loans and Payday Loans
If you are not named on the loan contract as a borrower or debtor and you are not a
guarantor that means you are not responsible for the debt.
If you have a joint loan, this means that you are named on the loan contract along with
someone else, and you are both responsible for the outstanding debt. If the other
person does not pay you can be responsible for the whole loan. See joint debts.
Do you want a personal loan or a pay day loan?
A personal loan can help you pay for things like a holiday or home renovations. If
you are thinking about getting a personal loan, you should make sure you can
afford to borrow the money and research your options to get the best deal on
interest rates, fees and charges.
For more information about personal loans, see:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Personal loans
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/borrowing-and-credit/other-types-of-credit/personal-loans?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
A pay day loan is a type of personal loan, which is often used to pay bills and
everyday living expenses. A pay day loan is a loan of up to $2,000 that must be
repaid between 16 days and one year. These loans often have high interest
rates and can trap you into needing to borrow over and over again.
For more information about pay day loans, see:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Pay day loans
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/borrowing-and-credit/payday-loans?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
If you are thinking about getting a pay day loan, make sure you have thought
about your other options. Read emergency money. You should never get a
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pay day loan to pay another loan or bill. You should apply for financial hardship.
Do you have a personal loan or pay day loan?
If you could not afford the payments when you got the loan, you should get legal advice.
If you cannot afford the payments, you can tell the lender that you are in
financial hardship because of DFV and ask to make an affordable repayment
plan.
If the lender will not agree to a repayment plan or is threatening to take legal
action, you can make a complaint to a free dispute resolution scheme to
review the decision. This will stop the lender starting court proceedings while
the dispute is being considered. If you have already received a statement of claim
or summons from a court you will need to act as soon as possible.
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
If you cannot afford any payments or need help negotiating with the lender, you
can speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National
Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
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o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Preparing to see a financial counsellor Tips
Collect your financial information
Contact the National Debt Helpline
Find out how to save money
Money problems can happen to anyone—whether you have lost your job or ended a
relationship.
A financial counsellor can provide support, information and advocacy if you are
experiencing financial difficulty. They provide free, confidential and independent
advice to help you organise your finances, budget and find available income support.
Financial counsellors have specific knowledge about credit, loans, debt and bankruptcy
laws.
If it is safe, you should prepare before you speak with a financial counsellor so you can
get the best advice. You can collect information about:
What you own: your home, savings, superannuation, car, shares and other
investments
What you owe: debts including mortgages, loans and credit cards
Your income and expenses
Insurance policies and their value
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Whether you have an up-to-date will
Your financial documents such as pay slips and bank statements
This will give the financial counsellor an overview of your finances so they can offer
you options, but do not worry if you cannot get everything together for the
appointment. You should tell the financial counsellor if you have
experienced domestic and family violence (DFV).
To speak with a free financial counsellor for advice, contact the National Debt
Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
For more information, see:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Budget planner
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps/budget-planner?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Money health check
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https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps
Utilities and Bills
This section provides information about what you can do about your bills, utilities and
phones. You should consider contacting these services to update them with your new
contact details and tell them about any safety concerns.
If you are safe and feel comfortable, you can also tell them you are experiencing
domestic and family violence (DFV).
Electricity, gas and water
If you have difficulty paying your bills, you can:
Read about bills and utility providers:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Problems paying your utility bills?
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/managing-debts/trouble-with-debt/problems-paying-your-utility-bills?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
National Debt Helpline – Bills
http://www.ndh.org.au/Debt-problems/Electricity-gas-and-water-bills
Contact your energy and water provider to take your name off the bill or
disconnect the service if you have left the family home. If the provider will not
remove your name, you should get legal advice.
Tell your utility provider that you are experiencing financial hardship because of domestic and family violence (DFV).
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If you have a debt from when you were no longer living in the property, you can
get help to reduce or waive the debt. You can speak with a free financial
counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
Ask the utility provider to make an affordable repayment plan for you based on
your current budget and income. You may be able to get a utility relief grant.
Contact Centrepay, which is a free bill-paying service for people receiving
Centrelink payments to set up automatic payments for your bills. This process
will help if your (ex) partner is pressuring you to give them cash.
Department of Human Services – Centrepay
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centrelink/centrepay
If the utility provider does not agree to a financial hardship arrangement, disconnects
your service or threatens you with disconnection, you can have that decision reviewed
by a free dispute resolution service or a tribunal.
ACT
ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal
(02) 6207 1740
https://www.acat.act.gov.au/
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NSW
Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW
1800 246 545
https://www.ewon.com.au/
NT
Ombudsman NT
1800 806 380
http://www.ombudsman.nt.gov.au/
QLD
Energy and Water Ombudsman QLD
1800 662 837
http://www.ewoq.com.au/
SA
Energy Industry Ombudsman SA
1800 665 565
http://www.ewosa.com.au/
TAS
Energy Ombudsman TAS
1800 001 170
http://www.energyombudsman.tas.gov.au/
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VIC
Energy and Water Ombudsman VIC
1800 500 509
https://www.ewov.com.au/
WA
Energy and Water Ombudsman WA
1800 117 000
http://www.ombudsman.wa.gov.au/
Other bills
You can:
Contact the companies to take your name off the bill if you have left the family
home. If they will not take your name off the bill, you should get legal advice.
Think about whether there are other direct debits you need to stop or change to
your new account. If your bank does not cancel a direct debit when you ask, you
should get legal advice.
Update your car registration and toll accounts with your new address and bank
account details. Tell the agency that you do not want these details to be shared
with anyone.
If you are in financial hardship, you can talk to the agency where you are
struggling to pay the bill. Tell them that you are in financial hardship and
experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV) and ask for a repayment
arrangement. You can show them your Centrelink payments and any DFV orders.
If you owe money to other places, such as the Australian Tax Office or a law
firm, and you cannot pay or get a repayment arrangement, you can speak with a
free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
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1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
Phones
If you have trouble paying your bills, you can:
Read information about bills:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Problems paying your utility bills?
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/managing-debts/trouble-with-debt/problems-paying-your-utility-bills?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
ACCAN – Hardship
https://accan.org.au/hardship-home
If you have left the property and a landline phone is in your name, you should
disconnect the phone by calling the telephone company and updating your
details.
Tell your telephone/mobile phone company that you are experiencing
financial hardship because of domestic and family violence (DFV).
Ask the company to make an affordable repayment plan for you based on your
current budget and income.
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You can speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the
National Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
If the telephone or mobile phone company does not accept your financial
hardship claim, you can make a complaint to a free dispute resolution scheme:
Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
1800 062 058
http://www.tio.com.au/
Your financial future and confidence with money
This section includes information about building your confidence with money.
First steps
If you have experienced financial abuse, you can get support to rebuild your
confidence and your relationship with money.
You can:
Read information about financial abuse:
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WIRE Women’s Information – Women Talk Money
https://www.womentalkmoney.org.au/
WIRE Women’s Information – Money problems with your partner
https://www.wire.org.au/assets/publications/Money-problems-with-your-partner-financial-abuse-info-booklet.pdf
Learn about how you can protect or get your money by reading money safety plan and contacting a support service.
Get legal advice.
Rebuild your confidence: take charge of your money
Managing your money can be a difficult task. By taking one step at a time you
can rebuild your confidence in managing your money.
You might not know where to start, or you might have already taken steps to protect
yourself. No matter where you are starting from, these simple steps and resources can
help you to learn more.
1. Learn to trust yourself again.
2. Make friends with your money. Track where your money is and where it is being
spent.
3. Speak with trusted friends and family about money.
4. Recognise your strengths. You can use your current strategies about spending
money to learn new strategies. If you can count to 10, this means you can learn
to budget!
5. Set yourself a small number of manageable goals over three months. For
example, find the cheapest mobile phone plan or set up your own bank account.
You have the right, the skills and the power to learn about money and build a safe and
financially secure future for you and your children.
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Budgeting
It is a good idea to think about budgeting your money. You can use resources and
support services to help you budget, manage your income and save your money.
You can:
Use:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Budget planner
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps/budget-planner?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Money health check
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps
Doing it tough – Your budget tool
http://www.doingittough.info/Financial-Health-Check/Your-Budget.html
Contact or visit your bank to find out about their saver programs for you and
your children.
Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and referrals through the
National Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can link you in with specific services. You can
also contact:
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Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Your future
You can get yourself more work ready to rebuild your financial future by writing or
updating your resume, getting feedback from a trusted friend or family member and
getting assistance from specialist job coaching services.
Visit:
Department of Human Services has links to job active organisations and other
government and community support services.
Department of Human Services – Looking for work
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/subjects/looking-work
Dress for Success is a not-for-profit organisation that assists women to achieve
financial security by providing a network of support, professional attire and the
development tools to help women in work.
Dress for Success
https://dressforsuccess.org/
My Future provides information about career paths, jobs and industries.
My Future
https://www.myfuture.edu.au/
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Study Assist provides information for people about government assistance
during study. You can contact your state or territory study institutions for
further information.
Study Assist
http://studyassist.gov.au/sites/StudyAssist/
Volunteer Australia provides links to volunteering opportunities which can help
you to rebuild your confidence, skills and connections.
Volunteer Australia
https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/
When you are ready, you can also learn about other financial resources and think
about your long-term finances:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Build your wealth
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/investing/invest-smarter/build-your-wealth?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Shares
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/investing/shares?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
Superannuation Guide
https://www.superguide.com.au/
This content has been developed with permission from WIRE Women’s Information.
We thank them for allowing us to use this in Penda.
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Wills, insurance, superannuation and power of attorney
This section provides information about wills, insurance, superannuation and power of
attorney.
Wills
Make or update your will.
Get legal advice.
Insurance
Check if your current home, car, health, life, ambulance and funeral insurance is
what you need. If it is not what you need, you should think about getting
insurance or changing your current cover. If your (ex) partner is a policy holder or beneficiary under an insurance policy, your claim may not be
paid if they caused the loss or damage.
If the insurance on your home or car is in your (ex) partner’s name, check to see
if they have cancelled the policy. If they have, you may need to organise your
own insurance.
Find out who the beneficiaries or next of kin on any of your insurance policies
are and if they need to be changed.
Get legal advice. Contact Insurance Law Service:
1300 663 464
http://insurancelaw.org.au/
Superannuation
Check your policy and if the beneficiaries or next of kin need to be changed.
If you have a binding nomination in place that is in favour of your (ex)
partner, you should think about cancelling it or changing it.
Check if your superannuation fund will let you access your funds early because
of financial hardship. You should not access your superannuation funds to
pay debts without getting advice first about:
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o Whether you are responsible for the debt
o Having a long-term plan to get your finances back on track
Superannuation is a part of the property settlement pool.
Power of attorney
Think about revoking (cancelling) any power of attorney agreements you have
given to your (ex) partner.
Get legal advice.
You should check who is listed as your next of kin on your employment records
and health directive. If it is your (ex) partner, you should think about changing
your next of kin.
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Visa and Immigration This app has been written for citizens and permanent residents of Australia. This
information may still be helpful if you are not a citizen or permanent resident of
Australia.
Some visas allow you to do different things such as study or work. Some visas allow you
to stay in Australia under migration law if you have experienced domestic and family violence (DFV). You should get immigration legal advice about this.
For information about support services, see culturally and linguistically diverse services.
For information about legal services, see visa and immigration legal services.
Resources
For more information and fact sheets about DFV and immigration, see:
Department of Immigration and Border Protection – Family violence and your
visa
http://www.border.gov.au/Trav/Brin/Part/Family-violence-and-your-visa
Department of Social Services – Family safety pack
https://www.dss.gov.au/family-safety-pack
Refugee Advice and Casework Service – Fact sheets
http://www.racs.org.au/causes/factsheets/
Refugee Council of Australia
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https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/services/information-for-refugees-and-asylum-seekers/legal-information/
Children This section provides legal information about parenting and child support that may be
relevant to you.
See also Legal Matters: Children.
It is also important to recognise that domestic and family violence (DFV) can
impact children. If possible, find a service to support your children. For more
information, see:
1800 RESPECT – Support for children
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-i-get-help-for-a-child-or-young-person-affected-by-violence/
Childcare Where can I find childcare?
To find out about your childcare options and to find a childcare service in your area,
you can:
Contact a support service.
Visit:
My Child Gov
https://www.mychild.gov.au/
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Child support Tips
Apply for child support with the Child Support Agency (CSA)
Speak to a Centrelink social worker if you are worried about domestic and family violence (DFV)
Register any agreement with the CSA for collection
Get legal advice before signing anything
Child support refers to the financial support of children. You, as a parent, can apply
for a child support assessment if you have separated from the other parent.
When you make a child support application, the CSA will look at both parents’ income
and the amount of time you both care for the children.
If you receive Centrelink benefits, you must get child support from the other
parent. You should apply for child support as soon as you can after separation. This is
important because child support is worked out from the date you apply for child
support.
If there is a risk of DFV, you can get an exemption which means that you do not
have to apply for child support from the other parent. You should visit or contact a
Centrelink office and speak to a Centrelink social worker about this.
Contact the Child Support Agency (CSA) on:
131 272
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/contact-us/phone-us#childsupport
Child support assessment
If you think your child support assessment is unfair or needs to be changed, your
situation may fit within one of the special circumstances to get it changed. You should
apply for a change of assessment as soon as you can.
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CSA can assess as far back as 18 months from the date of your application. If you need
them to look back further than 18 months, you should get legal advice.
For more information, see:
Department of Social Services – Child support guide
http://guides.dss.gov.au/child-support-guide
Child support agreements
It is important that you get legal advice before you enter a child support agreement as
they are difficult to change later. If you reach an agreement with your (ex) partner
about child support and enter a binding child support agreement, this can be registered
with the CSA so that they can collect payments for you.
Once your agreement is registered with the CSA, it is treated the same as a court
order. If you decide to collect child support yourself, the CSA will not be able to collect
missed payments until you register the agreement.
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Legal Matters This section provides information about legal matters that may be relevant to you. If
you need legal advice, see legal services.
Domestic and family violence matters and family law matters (parenting, property and
divorce) are in different courts and are guided by different laws and legislation.
For information about divorce, see:
Federal Circuit Court of Australia – Divorce
http://www.federalcircuitcourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fccweb/family-law-matters/divorce-and-separation/
Children Please refer to Children: Child Support.
Preparing to see a lawyer about parenting matters Tips
Gather your documents
Write down your questions
Contact the lawyer and ask about costs
To make the best use of your time and money, you should prepare before seeing a
lawyer. Private lawyers charge for their time and community legal centres and Legal
Aid commissions are very busy.
You can find a community legal centre, Legal Aid or private lawyer in your state or
territory here.
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If it is safe, it is a good idea to:
Tell them you have experienced domestic and family violence (DFV). Write a chronology of events with dates and what happened with as much
detail as you can remember. This can include:
o When you started the relationship
o When you started living together
o When and where you got married
o Any DFV
o Ages and needs of your children
o When you separated
o Any other relevant matters
Be prepared to provide information about the best interests of the children and
what you are seeking.
Be prepared to tell the lawyer what your (ex) partner will say about you and
what they are seeking.
Bring copies of any court documents.
Write down any questions you have.
Call ahead and ask what you should prepare, as well as how much they estimate
it will cost you.
Domestic and Family Violence Orders
Tips
Get support
Keep records of any domestic and family violence (DFV) Get legal advice
What is a domestic and family violence order?
A domestic and family violence order (DFV order) made by a court puts
legal restrictions on people who commit DFV. This means the court can stop a
person from doing things to protect you from threats or acts of DFV. Each state
and territory has different names, procedures and laws for DFV orders.
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You can get a DFV order against your partner or (ex) partner and certain family
members. A DFV order may also cover your children and other people. You
should get legal advice about this.
An order can be final (which can be in place for a certain number of years) or
temporary (until a final order is made).
DFV orders are civil orders. This means that the order is not a criminal charge
on the other person, unless the order is broken. Some DFV is a crime and can be
reported to the police.
An order will have conditions to protect you from DFV, and the police can
enforce them. For example, a DFV order can have conditions to stop the other
person (who the order is against) from approaching you or contacting you.
Get legal advice if your children have been abused and before you speak to
the police and child safety departments, if possible.
How can you get a domestic and family violence order?
For more information, see:
Girls Gotta Know – Orders
http://girlsgottaknow.com.au/relationships/family-and-domestic-violence/family-or-domestic-violence-protection-orders/
ACT
You can get a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer, and filing
at your local magistrates court. You should ask for support and get legal advice before
applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are support services.
Asking the police to apply on your behalf. Some police stations may have police officers
that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support services may
help you to speak with the police.
Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order on
your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
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You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – ACT
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/australian-capital-territory-domestic-violence-orders/
NSW
You can get an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer,
and filing at your local court. You should ask for support and get legal advice
before applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are support
services.
Asking the police to apply on your behalf. Some police stations may have police
officers that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support
services may help you to speak with the police.
Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order
on your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – NSW
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/new-south-wales-apprehended-domestic-violence-orders/
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NT
You can get a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer, and
filing at the local court. You should ask for support and get legal advice before
applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are support services.
Asking the police to apply on your behalf. Some police stations may have police officers
that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support services may
help you to speak with the police.
Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order on
your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – NT
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/northern-territory-domestic-violence-orders/
QLD
You can get a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVO) by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer,
and filing at your local magistrates court. You should ask for support and get
legal advice before applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are
support services.
Asking the police to apply on your behalf. Some police stations may have police
officers that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support
services may help you to speak with the police.
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Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order
on your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – QLD
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/queensland-domestic-violence-protection-orders/
SA
You can get an Intervention Order by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer,
and filing at your local magistrates court. You should ask for support and get
legal advice before applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are
support services.
Asking the police to apply on your behalf. Some police stations may have police
officers that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support
services may help you to speak with the police.
Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order
on your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – SA https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-
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protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/south-australia-intervention-orders/
TAS
You can get a Family Violence Order (FVO) by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer, and
filing at your local magistrates court. You should ask for support and get legal advice
before applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are support services.
Asking the police to apply on your behalf. Some police stations may have police officers
that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support services may
help you to speak with the police.
Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order on
your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – TAS
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/tasmania-family-violence-orders/
VIC
You can get a Family Violence Intervention Order by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer,
and filing at your local magistrates court. You should ask for support and get
legal advice before applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are
support services.
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Asking the police to apply on your behalf. Some police stations may have police
officers that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support
services may help you to speak with the police.
Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order
on your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – VIC
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/victoria-family-violence-intervention-orders/
WA
You can get a Violence Restraining Order by:
Filling out an application form yourself, or with a support person or a lawyer, and
filing at your local court. You should ask for support and get legal advice before
applying. You can contact the court to find out if there are support services.
Asking the police to apply on your behalf for an order. Some police stations may have
police officers that are trained in DFV. You should ask to speak to them. Support
services may help you to speak with the police.
Calling the police during an emergency. They can apply for an appropriate order on
your behalf.
You can register your order in another state or territory.
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s schools and childcare centre.
For more information, see:
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1800 RESPECT – WA
https://www.1800respect.org.au/common-questions/how-can-a-protection-order-help-stop-the-violence/western-australia-violence-restraining-orders/
Once you have a domestic and family violence order
You should keep a copy of the order with you at all times and give copies to your
children’s school and childcare centre.
If the other person has breached the order, you should report the breach to the
police (ask for the incident report). A breach is when the other person does
something the order says they should not do. This can be a criminal offence. You
should keep copies or record details of any breaches.
If you are the other person on the order, you should not breach the conditions
of the order.
If you had to leave the house without all of your belongings, you may be able to
get a condition as part of your order to return and collect personal belongings.
Sometimes the police can help you even if you do not have an order. You should
contact your local police station to find out.
If you have an order and you move to another state or territory, you may be able
to register your order in that state or territory. You should get legal advice. about this.
Property Settlement
Tips
Prepare before seeing a lawyer
Think about Family Dispute Resolution (FDR), if it is safe
Get legal advice
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What do I need to know about property settlement?
If you have separated and you share property with your (ex) partner, you can divide it.
This is called a property settlement.
For more information, see:
Relationships Australia – A fair share
http://www.relationships.org.au/relationship-advice/publications/a_fair_share
You should get advice about property settlement, especially if any of these apply to
you:
You own or are buying a home with your (ex) partner.
Your (ex) partner has, or you jointly own, other significant assets like real estate,
money or shares.
Your (ex) partner has significantly more superannuation than you.
There are time limits to apply to the court for a property settlement:
If you were married and then divorced, you have 12 months from the date of the
divorce to apply.
If you were in a de facto relationship, you have two years from the end of the
relationship to apply if the relationship ended after 1 March 2009.
If you were married and have a valid overseas divorce, the time limit may not
apply to you.
You will need to apply to the court for ‘leave’ (permission) to file out of these times.
What can be included in a property settlement?
You should make a list of any property in your name, your (ex) partner’s name and in
both of your names.
Property includes both assets and debts. These include:
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Assets: things of value such as real estate, cars or other vehicles, money,
animals, shares, furniture, jewellery, and superannuation; and
Debts: things that owe money such as loans, credit cards, and mortgages.
If you and your (ex) partner have partnerships, businesses, trusts, self-funded
superannuation funds, and companies, you should get legal advice as soon as
possible because there may be legal consequences if you stay in or leave these.
You should always get legal advice before making agreements or signing any
documents.
Four step process
There is a four step process to working out a property settlement after separation. The
four step process is:
1. Work out the net value of the property (assets – debts)
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Asset stocktake calculator
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps/asset-stocktake-calculator?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
2. Write down the financial and non-financial contributions you and your
(ex) partner made to the property pool. This might include wages,
homemaker contributions, working unpaid in the family business, looking
after children or elderly parents and any insurance payouts, gifts or
inheritances.
3. List the future needs of both you and your (ex) partner. This includes
each person’s ability to work, their income, access to property and
resources, age, health issues and care of children.
4. The property settlement should be fair overall.
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If you believe your (ex) partner is about to sell or destroy property, you should get legal advice immediately. Urgent court orders can be made or you can lodge a caveat over
the title of the property to show and protect your interest in it.
Reaching agreement
You should not negotiate with your (ex) partner if there is domestic and family violence (DFV) present as it may be unsafe or unfair for you. You can use FDR to help
you make an agreement.
To find an FDR service near you, contact Relationships Australia:
1300 364 277
https://www.relationships.org.au/
You should get legal advice about property settlement whether or not you and your
(ex) partner agree about the settlement. If you cannot come to an agreement, you
might have to apply for court orders, which takes time and costs money.
For more information, see:
Women’s Legal Service QLD – Fact sheets
https://www.wlsq.org.au/resources/legal-toolkit/national-infosheets
Preparing to see a lawyer about property settlement
Tips
Gather your documents
Write down your questions
Contact the lawyer and ask about costs
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To make the best use of your time and money, you should prepare before seeing a
lawyer. Private lawyers charge for their time and community legal centres and Legal
Aid commissions are very busy.
You can find a community legal centre, Legal Aid or private lawyer in your state or
territory here.
If it is safe, it is a good idea to:
Tell them you have experienced domestic and family violence (DFV). Write a chronology of events with dates and what happened with as much
detail as you can remember. This can include:
o When you started the relationship
o When you started living together
o When and where you got married
o Any DFV
o Ages and needs of your children
o When you separated
o Major asset purchases and how these were paid for
o Financial and non-financial contributions
o Any other relevant financial matters
Gather and organise your financial records—the more time you spend on this,
the less the solicitor will have to do.
List the assets and debts as far as you know.
Have copies of bank records (for the last 12 months), mortgage papers,
superannuation information, valuation/appraisal of real estate, investment
details, income tax returns (for the previous three years), Centrelink
paperwork, payslips (any records of long service leave/overtime) and insurance
records.
Write down any questions you have.
Call ahead and ask what you should prepare, as well as how much they estimate
it will cost you.
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Spousal or de facto maintenance
Tips
Prepare before seeing a lawyer
Know about the time limits
Get legal advice.
If you were married or in a de facto relationship, you may be able to get spousal or de
facto maintenance. This is not child maintenance or child support and this is not an
automatic right. It is money paid to you by your (ex) partner so you can support
yourself. It can be paid as a weekly sum, lump sum or both.
You cannot apply for spousal or de facto maintenance if you have a new partner or
have remarried.
What can I ask for?
You can ask for urgent spousal or de facto maintenance if you need financial help
straight away. You should get legal advice as soon as possible, because you can apply to
the court for an urgent spousal maintenance order while you are waiting for a final
court order to be made.
You will have to prove that you cannot afford your reasonable needs and expenses and
that your (ex) partner has the capacity to pay for them. If you receive this money, it
should be spent on reasonable living items and you should keep track of how you spend
this money.
‘Reasonable’ and ‘capacity’ have legal meanings, and you should get legal advice about what these words mean in your situation.
There are time limits to apply to the court for spousal or de facto maintenance:
If you were married and then divorced, you have 12 months from the date of the
divorce to apply.
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If you were in a de facto relationship, you have two years from the end of the
relationship to apply if the relationship ended after 1 March 2009.
If you were married and have a valid overseas divorce, the time limit may not
apply to you.
Wills, insurance, superannuation and power of attorney
See Money: Wills, insurance, superannuation and power of attorney
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Housing This section provides information about emergency housing, renting and mortgages.
If you have left your home or rental property, you can still go back if it is safe. You do
not lose the right to return if you leave, but you should not break in. If you think your
(ex) partner will sell, transfer or destroy the property, you should get legal advice as
soon as possible.
Emergency Housing
Support services
If you do not have a safe place to stay, you should contact 1800 RESPECT. They
can refer you to a service to help you find emergency housing. You can also use
this service to plan your next steps if you are living in the same property as your
(ex) partner.
1800 737 732
https://www.1800respect.org.au/get-help/
You can find the details of local services in your area:
Homelessness Australia
http://www.homelessnessaustralia.org.au/are-you-experiencing-homelessness
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Urgent money help
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/managing-debts/trouble-with-debt/urgent-money-help?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
You should think about your safety and contact a support service.
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Read property settlement.
If you are renting
This section provides information about your renting options.
You can find the contact details of local tenancy services in your area here:
Tenant Help
http://www.tenanthelp.com.au/
Do you want to rent a property?
This section provides information about getting a rental property.
To find out if you have been blacklisted from renting, you should search the
tenancy database on TICA. There may be a fee but you can find a support
service to help you with this.
TICA
https://www.tica.com.au/
If you are on the blacklist, call your local tenancy advice service to help you
make an application to your state or territory tribunal to be removed from
the list so that you can rent.
If you are not on the blacklist, then you can contact a real estate company in
your area to find a rental property that suits you and your children, and meets
your safety concerns and your budget.
You can also contact your local housing service in your state or territory and ask
about your options. You can make an application for a rental property under the
National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS).
NRAS
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https://www.dss.gov.au/our-responsibilities/housing-support/programmes-services/national-rental-affordability-scheme
You should get legal advice.
Do you want to stay in the rental property?
This sections provides information about staying in the rental property without your
(ex) partner because of domestic and family violence (DFV).
Think about your safety and contact a support service.
You should get advice from your local tenancy advice service about:
Any property damage to your rental property
Any outstanding debt
Changing the lease
Security and the rental bond
ACT
You will need an interim or final Domestic Violence Order or Personal
Protection Order to end the rental agreement.
You can apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to
end the co-tenancy and remove your (ex) partner’s name from the rental
agreement.
For legal advice, contact Tenants Union ACT:
(02) 6247 1026
http://www.tenantsact.org.au/
NSW
Your options will depend on your tenancy status and your tenancy agreement.
If you are a co-tenant and you have a final Apprehended Violence Order
that does not allow your (ex) partner in the rental property, tell the landlord
that your (ex) partner has left and that you will stay in the property.
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If you are a co-tenant and you do not have a final Apprehended Violence
Order, you can still apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for an
order for you to stay in the rental property and end your (ex) partner’s tenancy.
To find a tenants service near you, see:
Tenants Org
https://www.tenants.org.au/
For more information, see:
Tenants Org – Fact sheet
https://www.tenants.org.au/factsheet-12-domestic-violence
NT
You will need a Domestic Violence Order from the Local Court that does not
allow your (ex) partner in the rental property.
The Local Court can also make orders to change the tenancy agreement to
remove your (ex) partner’s name or add your name to the tenancy agreement, if
you can afford to stay in the property.
For legal advice, contact:
o Darwin Community Legal Service
1800 812 953
https://www.dcls.org.au/legal-and-advocacy-services/tenants-advice/
o Domestic Violence Legal Service (Darwin)
(08) 8999 7977
o For services in other regions, see tenancy legal services
For more information, see:
o Darwin Community Legal Service – Fact sheet
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https://www.dcls.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/DOMESTIC-AND-FAMILY-VIOLENCE-AND-TENANCY.pdf
QLD
You can get a Domestic Violence Protection Order from a local
Magistrates Court.
You can apply to the QLD Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to
remove your (ex) partner’s name from the rental agreement. Any DFV
orders would be a relevant consideration for the Tribunal. In some cases, you
may be able to get this order through the Magistrates Court when applying for
your DFV order.
For legal advice, contact Tenants QLD:
1300 744 263
https://tenantsqld.org.au/
For more information, see:
Tenants QLD – Fact sheet
http://www.tenantsqld.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/When-Violence-Affects-Your-Tenancy.pdf
SA
You can get an Intervention Order from a local Magistrates Court, a report
from police or a report from a specialist domestic violence service to end the
rental agreement.
You can apply to the SA Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to end
the co-tenancy and remove your (ex) partner’s name from the rental agreement.
For legal advice, contact Legal Services Commission SA:
1300 366 424
http://www.lsc.sa.gov.au/
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For more information, see:
SA Government – Fact sheet
http://www.sa.gov.au/topics/housing/resolving-problems-and-disputes/domestic-violence-protections-for-renters
TAS
You can get a Family Violence Order from your local Magistrates Court to
stop your (ex) partner entering the rental property.
The Magistrates Court can also make orders to change the rental agreement
and remove your (ex) partner’s name from the rental agreement.
For legal advice, contact Tenants Union TAS:
1300 652 641
http://tutas.org.au/
VIC
You will need a final Family Violence Intervention Order or Personal
Safety Intervention Order.
You can apply to the VIC Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to
remove your (ex) partner’s name from the rental agreement.
For legal advice, contact Tenants Union VIC:
(03) 9416 2577
https://www.tuv.org.au/
For more information, see:
Tenants Union VIC – Fact sheet
http://www.tuv.org.au/family-violence-protection
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Do you want to stay in the rental property but cannot afford the rent?
If you want to stay in your rental property but cannot afford the rent at the moment,
you can:
Try to negotiate a repayment plan with your landlord.
Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt
Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
If you are experiencing long-term financial hardship and cannot afford the
rent then you may need to find other affordable housing. You can contact a
support service for help.
Read property settlement as you may be able to negotiate with your (ex)
partner about spousal maintenance and property settlement so you can afford
your rent.
You should get legal advice.
Do you want to stay in the rental property but cannot afford the rent?
If you want to stay in your rental property but cannot afford the rent at the moment,
you can:
Try to negotiate a repayment plan with your landlord.
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Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and advice on the National Debt
Helpline:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
If you are experiencing long-term financial hardship and cannot afford the
rent then you may need to find other affordable housing. You can contact a
support service for help.
Read property settlement as you may be able to negotiate with your (ex)
partner about spousal maintenance and property settlement so you can afford
your rent.
You should get legal advice.
Do you want to end the tenancy agreement?
This section provides information about ending your tenancy agreement because of
domestic and family violence (DFV).
You should get advice from your local tenancy advice service about:
Any property damage to your rental property
Any outstanding debt
Getting off the lease and getting a bond refund
Returning the keys and exit report
Tenancy databases
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ACT
You will need an interim or final Domestic Violence Order, Personal
Protection Order or other evidence of DFV to end the rental agreement.
You can apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to
end the co-tenancy and remove your name from the rental agreement.
For legal advice, contact Tenant’s Union ACT:
(02) 6247 1026
http://www.tenantsact.org.au/
NSW
Your options will depend on your tenancy status and your tenancy agreement.
If you are a co-tenant, you can seek a final Apprehended Violence Order that does not allow your (ex) partner in the rental property and/or seek an
order from the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
To find a tenants service near you, see:
Tenants Org
https://www.tenants.org.au/
For more information, see:
Tenants Org – Fact sheet
https://www.tenants.org.au/factsheet-12-domestic-violence
NT
Your options will depend on your tenancy status and your tenancy agreement.
When applying for a Domestic Violence Order through the Local Court, you
can seek an order that changes the agreement so you no longer have to stay
there and have no ongoing legal obligations.
For legal advice, contact:
o Darwin Community Legal Service
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1800 812 953
https://www.dcls.org.au/legal-and-advocacy-services/tenants-advice/
o Domestic Violence Legal Service (Darwin)
(08) 8999 7977
For services in other regions, see tenancy legal services
For more information, see:
Darwin Community Legal Service – Fact sheet
https://www.dcls.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/DOMESTIC-AND-FAMILY-VIOLENCE-AND-TENANCY.pdf
QLD
You can get a Domestic Violence Protection Order from a local
Magistrates Court.
You can apply to the QLD Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to
end the co-tenancy and remove your name from the rental agreement. Any DFV
orders would be a relevant consideration for the Tribunal. In some cases, you
may be able to get this order through the Magistrates Court when applying for
your DFV order.
For legal advice, contact Tenants QLD:
1300 744 263
https://tenantsqld.org.au/
For more information, see:
Tenants QLD – Fact sheet
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http://www.tenantsqld.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/When-Violence-Affects-Your-Tenancy.pdf
SA
You can get an Intervention Order from a local Magistrates Court, a report
from the police or a report from a specialist domestic violence service to end
the rental agreement.
You can apply to the SA Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to end
the co-tenancy and remove your name from the rental agreement.
For legal advice, contact Legal Services Commission SA:
1300 366 424
http://www.lsc.sa.gov.au/
For more information, see:
SA Government – Fact sheet
http://www.sa.gov.au/topics/housing/resolving-problems-and-disputes/domestic-violence-protections-for-renters
TAS
You can get a Family Violence Order from your local Magistrates Court to
end the rental agreement.
The Magistrates Court can also make orders to change the tenancy agreement
to remove your (ex) partner’s name from the rental agreement. You cannot
terminate the rental agreement.
For legal advice, contact Tenants Union TAS:
1300 652 641
http://tutas.org.au/
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VIC
You may be eligible to apply to stay in the rental property without your (ex)
partner if the property is your principal place of residence, even if you are not a
tenant on the current lease.
You will need an interim or final Family Violence Intervention Order or
Personal Safety Intervention Order.
You can apply to the VIC Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get an order to
end the co-tenancy and remove your name from the rental agreement.
For legal advice, contact Tenants Union VIC:
(03) 9416 2577
https://www.tuv.org.au/
For more information, see:
Tenants Union VIC – Fact sheet
http://www.tuv.org.au/family-violence-protection
WA
There are no specific legislative rights to change the tenancy agreement due
to DFV. However, you may be able to exercise your general rights under the
Residential Tenancies Act.
For legal advice, contact Tenancy WA:
(08) 9221 0088 (metro) 1800 621 888 (country)
http://www.tenancywa.org.au/
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If you have a mortgage and/or you own a property
This section provides information about mortgages. You should get legal advice about your mortgage and read property settlement.
You can ask the lender if you own the property or are the borrower on the mortgage.
You are a borrower on the mortgage Tips
Contact your lender about your options
Contact the National Debt Helpline
Get legal advice
This section provides information about what you can do if your name is on the
mortgage. If your name is on the mortgage, it means you have to make the mortgage
payments.
If you stop making the mortgage payments, the lender may repossess the mortgaged
property. You may be able to come to an agreement with your (ex) partner about the
repayments as part of your property settlement.
What can you do?
You should cancel the redraw facility or change it so the lender will need the
signatures of both borrowers. A redraw facility means you or your (ex) partner can
borrow more money and add it to the mortgage. If you are not sure whether your
mortgage allows this, you should contact your lender to find out.
You should get legal advice if:
You have received a default notice and 30 days have passed since the date of
the notice
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You have received a statement of claim or summons
The lender is threatening court action to repossess your home
Tell the lender if you are in financial hardship because of domestic and family violence (DFV) and ask to make an affordable repayment plan. You can make a
request for financial hardship without the joint debtor agreeing. You should get legal
advice if the lender says you need the co-borrower to agree.
When you talk to your lender, you can ask to:
Reduce your payments temporarily
Reduce your payments until you can afford the usual repayments which means
it will take longer to pay off your loan
Make a payment plan while the home is sold
If the lender will not agree to a repayment plan or is threatening to repossess your
home, you can make a complaint to a free dispute resolution scheme to review
this decision. This will also stop the lender starting court proceedings while the dispute
is being considered, providing the lender has not obtained a court judgment. Get legal advice.
Financial Ombudsman Service
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
Tell the lender you are getting advice and contact the National Debt Helpline to speak
with a free financial counsellor:
Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm
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1800 007 007
http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
For more information, see:
Legal Aid NSW – Mortgage Stress Handbook
http://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/publications/factsheets-and-resources/mortgage-stress-handbook
You are not the owner of the property or a borrower on the mortgage What should you do?
If your name is not on the mortgage documents, you are not legally responsible
for the mortgage.
If you have been contributing to the home, you should think about lodging a
caveat to protect your possible interest in the home. You should get legal advice about this as soon as possible, especially if you think your (ex) partner
will sell, transfer or destroy the property.
The property may form part of the property settlement pool.
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Wellness
This section provides information and tips on wellness and rebuilding your
confidence with money.
Domestic and family violence (DFV) can impact your physical and
psychological well-being. You may be experiencing a difficult and stressful time
in your life. It is important to know that these feelings are okay and that there
are things you can do, people you can talk to, and services you can go to for
support.
For more information about supporting someone, see:
https://www.1800respect.org.au/support/#link0
https://www.1800respect.org.au/workers/
Your financial future and confidence with money
This section includes information about building your confidence with money.
First steps
If you have experienced financial abuse, you can get support to rebuild your
confidence and your relationship with money.
You can:
Read information about financial abuse:
WIRE Women’s Information – Women Talk Money https://www.womentalkmoney.org.au/ WIRE Women’s Information – Money problems with your partner https://www.womentalkmoney.org.au/
Learn about how you can protect or get your money by reading money safety plan and contacting a support service.
Get legal advice.
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Rebuild your confidence: take charge of your money
Managing your money can be a difficult task. By taking one step at a time you
can rebuild your confidence in managing your money.
You might not know where to start, or you might have already taken steps to protect
yourself. No matter where you are starting from, these simple steps and resources can
help you to learn more.
1. Learn to trust yourself again.
2. Make friends with your money. Track where your money is and where it is being
spent.
3. Speak with trusted friends and family about money.
4. Recognise your strengths. You can use your current strategies about spending
money to learn new strategies. If you can count to 10, this means you can learn
to budget!
5. Set yourself a small number of manageable goals over three months. For
example, find the cheapest mobile phone plan or set up your own bank account.
You have the right, the skills and the power to learn about money and build a safe and
financially secure future for you and your children.
Budgeting
It is a good idea to think about budgeting your money. You can use resources and
support services to help you budget, manage your income and save your money.
You can:
Use:
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Budget planner
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps/budget-planner?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Money health check
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https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps
Doing it tough – Your budget tool
http://www.doingittough.info/Financial-Health-Check/Your-Budget.html
Contact or visit your bank to find out about their saver programs for you and
your children.
Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and referrals through the
National Debt Helpline:
Monday – Friday 9.30am – 4.30pm
1800 007 007 http://www.ndh.org.au/
o If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can link you in with specific services. You can
also contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
Your future
You can get yourself more work ready to rebuild your financial future by writing or
updating your resume, getting feedback from a trusted friend or family member and
getting assistance from specialist job coaching services.
Visit:
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Department of Human Services has links to job active organisations and other
government and community support services.
Department of Human Services – Looking for work https://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/subjects/looking-work
Dress for Success is a not-for-profit organisation that assists women to achieve
financial security by providing a network of support, professional attire and the
development tools to help women in work.
Dress for Success
http://kodamanager.preview-env.com/home/wellness/confidence-with-money/
My Future provides information about career paths, jobs and industries.
My Future
https://www.myfuture.edu.au/
Study Assist provides information for people about government assistance
during study. You can contact your state or territory study institutions for
further information.
Study Assist
http://studyassist.gov.au/sites/StudyAssist/
Volunteer Australia provides links to volunteering opportunities which can help
you to rebuild your confidence, skills and connections.
Volunteer Australia
https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/
When you are ready, you can also learn about other financial resources and think
about your long-term finances:
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ASIC’s MoneySmart – Build your wealth
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/investing/invest-smarter/build-your-wealth?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Shares
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/investing/shares?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
Superannuation Guide
https://www.superguide.com.au/
This content has been developed with permission from WIRE Women’s Information.
We thank them for allowing us to use this in Penda.
Wellness tips
This section provides steps you can take to increase your sense of wellness. If you feel
you cannot do this alone, then you should contact a support service.
You can:
1. Recognise when you are feeling stressed, anxious or upset. o What is making you feel stressed, anxious or upset?
o What is happening to your body when you feel this way?
o Read about domestic and family violence (DFV).
2. Find positive and constructive ways to express and process your
feelings. o If it is safe, keep a personal journal and write down something positive
about yourself every day.
o Reach out and connect with trusted friends and family to build your
support network.
o Contact a DFV support service and find out whether there are any
services available through your workplace or study program.
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o Attend counselling sessions. To learn more about counselling, see:
WIRE Women’s Information – Counselling
https://www.wire.org.au/assets/upload/content/Counselling-v2015.pdf
o Join groups of other women to gain support and strengthen your
relationships with others. Contact your local support service to find
out details.
o It may help to anonymously record your story or read the survival stories
of those who have had similar experiences on:
Not The Only One
http://nottheonlyone.org.au/
3. Take time out for yourself (when possible) to relax. o Read, meditate, or play music.
o Find and make time for social activities you enjoy, such as going to the
movies or exercise classes.
o Include relaxation and deep breathing exercises in your daily routine.
o Spend time with people who make you feel happy and provide you with
support.
o Download these meditation and mindfulness apps for some helpful tips:
Headspace app
http://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app
Stop Breathe Think app
https://www.stopbreathethink.com/
Smiling Mind app
https://smilingmind.com.au/smiling-mind-app/
4. Care for your physical health—it will help your emotional health. o Eat well and drink plenty of water. For more information see:
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Eat for Health – Eating well
https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/
o Get plenty of rest, have a good sleep routine and go to bed at a similar
time every night, avoid caffeine in the evening, avoid using any
computers or phones 20 minutes before bed, and read or meditate
before you go to sleep.
o Go for a walk or start an exercise program to increase your energy levels
and wellness.
Department of Health – Physical activity
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/phy-activity
o Avoid or limit alcohol (alcohol is a depressant).
o Speak to your GP if you have physical or mental health concerns.
5. Set realistic goals. o Set small, manageable and realistic goals.
o Make small steps towards your future goals.
o Take time to prepare emotionally before entering stressful situations
(such as talking with your (ex) partner, lawyers or attending court).
o Try not to ‘over book’ yourself by limiting your daily appointments and
commitments to reduce stress.
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Services and Information This section provides information on services that may be able to help you.
Some services are free but may prioritise clients that meet a particular criteria. There
may be costs to call from a mobile phone. Contact details are subject to change.
Safety and domestic and family violence
This section has information on national, state and territory support services that help
with safety and domestic and family violence matters.
For information on family law and domestic and family violence legal services see
Legal services: Family law and domestic and family violence legal services.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander services National National Family Violence Prevention Legal Services
Provides specialist, culturally safe legal services and support to Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people who experience domestic and family violence.
National Family Violence Prevention Legal Services
http://www.nationalfvpls.org/
Provides information about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support services in
your area.
1800 RESPECT – Indigenous Services
https://www.1800respect.org.au/workers/atsi/indigenous-services/
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You can contact other support services that may have Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander specific services.
State/Territory
ACT
There is no Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family violence legal service.
However, you can contact Legal Aid ACT, a private lawyer or a community legal centre
in your area. See legal services.
Aboriginal Legal Service (ACT)
1800 733 233
(02) 8836 3444
http://alsnswact.org.au/
NSW
Binaal Billa Family Violence Prevention Legal Service
Forbes
1800 700 218 http://www.binaalbilla.com.au/
Many Rivers Family Violence Prevention Legal Service
Kempsey
(02) 6562 5856
http://www.manyriversfvpls.com.au/
Thiyama-Li Family Violence Service Inc
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Moree
(02) 6751 1400
Bourke
(02) 6872 2440
Walgett
(02) 6828 3143
Warra-Warra Family Violence Prevention Legal Service
Broken Hill
1800 812 800
(08) 8087 6766
QLD
Aboriginal Family Legal Service Southern QLD
1800 185 950
http://aflssq.org.au/
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Legal Services
Northern QLD (ATSI WLS NQ)
1800 082 600
(07) 4721 6007
http://www.atsiwlsnq.org.au/
QLD Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service (QIFVLS)
1800 887 700
http://www.qifvls.com.au/
SA
Family Violence Legal Service Aboriginal Corporation SA (FVLSAC)
http://www.fvlsac.org.au/Ceduna
Ceduna
1800 839 059
(08) 8625 3800
Port Augusta
1800 111 052
(08) 8641 2195
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Port Lincoln
1800 309 912
(08) 8683 4825
TAS
There is no Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family violence legal service.
However, you can contact Legal Aid TAS, a private lawyer or a community legal centre
in your area. See legal services.
TAS Aboriginal Community Legal Service
1800 132 260
http://tacinc.com.au/
VIC
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation Family Violence
Prevention and Legal Service VIC (FVPLS)
1800 105 303
http://www.fvpls.org/
WA
Southern Aboriginal Corporation Family Violence Prevention Legal
Service
Albany
(08) 9842 7777
WA Family Violence Prevention Legal Service Aboriginal
Corporation
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1800 469 246
(08) 9355 1502
http://www.afls.org.au/
Marninwarntikura Family Violence Prevention Unit
Fitzroy Crossing
(08) 9191 5284
Culturally and linguistically diverse services This section has links to national, state and territory culturally and linguistically
diverse support services.
National Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS)
Call TIS to contact 1800 RESPECT for free in your language.
Open all day, every day.
131 450
1800 RESPECT
National domestic and family violence and sexual assault support service.
Open all day, every day.
1800 737 732
https://www.1800respect.org.au/languages/
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State/Territory
ACT
ACT does not have a specific service for women from different cultural backgrounds.
However, you can contact 1800 RESPECT:
1800 737 732
NSW
1800 SHAKTI
Domestic and family violence service for women of Middle Eastern, African and Asian
backgrounds.
1800 742 584
0404 174 285
http://shakti-international.org/shakti-aus/
Immigrant Women’s Speakout NSW
(02) 9635 8022
http://www.speakout.org.au/index.html
NT
NT does not have a specific service for women from different cultural backgrounds.
However, you can contact 1800 RESPECT:
1800 737 732
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QLD
Immigrant Women’s Support Service
(07) 3846 3490
www.iwss.org.au/
SA
Migrant Women’s Support Service
(08) 8346 9417
http://womenssafetyservices.com.au/index.php/about/services/27-migrant-women-s-support-program
TAS
TAS does not have a specific service for women from different cultural backgrounds.
However, you can contact 1800 RESPECT:
1800 737 732
VIC
1800 SHAKTI
Domestic and family violence service for women of Middle Eastern, African and Asian
backgrounds.
1800 742 584
(03) 9753 4324
http://shakti-international.org/shakti-aus/
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inTouch – Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence
1800 755 988
(03) 9413 6500
http://www.intouch.org.au/
WA
Multicultural and Women’s Advocacy Service
https://whfs.org.au/
Joondalup
(08) 9300 1566
Northbridge
1800 998 399
(08) 6330 5400
Disability services This section has links to national disability support services.
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1800 RESPECT
National domestic and family violence and sexual assault support service.
Open all day, every day.
1800 737 732
User Accessibility
https://www.1800respect.org.au/accessibility/
Auslan Video
https://www.1800respect.org.au/auslan-video/
National Relay Service
A support service for those with impaired hearing. Call the National Relay Service to
contact 1800 RESPECT.
Open all day, every day.
http://relayservice.gov.au/
TTY and Voice Calls
133 677
Speak and Listen
1300 555 727
SMS relay
Text 0423 677 767
Life Without Barriers
A social support organisation to assist those living with disability.
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1800 935 483
(02) 4033 4500
http://disabilityservices.lwb.org.au/?gclid=COqOsqm4tNECFYcHKgodORoH0Q
Job Access
National disability abuse and neglect hotline.
1800 880 052
https://www.jobaccess.gov.au/people-with-disabilityPeople with Disability
Information, advice and referrals for people with disabilities.
1800 422 015
(02) 9370 3100
http://www.pwd.org.au/
Read Aloud
An online text to speech service.
https://ttsreader.com/
Tell Someone
Provides information for those impacted by domestic and family violence about where
to go for help and who to tell.
http://www.tellsomeone.org.au/index.htmlVision Australia
Vision Australia
A support service for those with impaired vision.
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1300 847 466
http://www.visionaustralia.org/
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex services This section has links to national and local lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex
and queer (LGBTIQ) support services.
National
Another Closet Online
Information and referral details for LGBTIQ domestic and family violence services.
http://www.anothercloset.com.au/
Gender Centre
Support service for the transgender and gender diverse community.
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 4.30pm
(02) 9519 7599
https://gendercentre.org.au/
National Police Assistance Line
Call your local police station to see if they have a LGBTIQ Liaison Officer that can
provide assistance.
131 444
OII Australia
Support service for people with intersex variations or traits.
https://oii.org.au/
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QLIFE
National counselling and referral service for LGTBIQ people. Online chat and
directory available.
Open 3pm – midnight, every day.
1800 184 527
https://qlife.org.au/support/
Local To find a local service in your area, see:
1800 RESPECT
https://www.1800respect.org.au/lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender-and-intersex-where-can-i-find-support-1/
QLIFE Directory
https://qlife.org.au/resources/
Reach Out
https://au.reachout.com/articles/lgbtqi-support-services
Safety If you, a child or another person is in immediate danger, you should call the police now
on
000
1800 RESPECT
Counselling helpline, information and support.
Open all day, every day.
1800 737 732
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https://www.1800respect.org.au/
eSafety – Take control
https://www.esafety.gov.au/women/take-control
WESNET – Safety net
http://wesnet.org.au/safetynet/safetynetdocs/
1800 RESPECT – Tech tips for increasing security
https://www.1800respect.org.au/get-help/tech-tips-for-increasing-security/
State/Territory To find a local service in your area, see:
http://www.dvrcv.org.au/support-services/national-services
https://www.1800respect.org.au/daisy/%3B/
ACT
Domestic Violence Crisis Service
Open all day, every day.
(02) 6280 0900
https://dvcs.org.au/
NSW
Domestic Violence Line
Open all day, every day.
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1800 656 463
NT
1800 RESPECT
Open all day, every day.
1800 737 732
NT Government – Domestic and family violence
https://nt.gov.au/law/crime/domestic-and-family-violence/get-help-for-domestic-and-family-violence
QLD
DV Connect
Open all day, every day.
1800 811 811
http://www.dvconnect.org/
SA
Women’s Safety Services SA
Open all day, every day.
1800 800 098
http://www.cdvs.com.au/
TAS
Family Violence Counselling and Support Service (Safe at Home)
Open 9.00am – midnight.
1800 633 937
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VIC
Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre
Open all day, every day.
1800 015 188
http://www.safesteps.org.au/
WA
Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline
Open all day, every day.
(08) 9223 1188
1800 000 599
Other Support Court support
Some courts may have support services that you can access. You can call the court
ahead of time and find out.
Kids Helpline
Phone counselling service for people aged 5 – 25 years.
Open all day, every day.
1800 551 800
https://kidshelpline.com.au/
Lifeline
Crisis support and suicide prevention service.
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Open all day, every day.
13 11 14
https://kidshelpline.com.au/
Red Cross
A community services charity that provides emergency relief and support to those in
need.
http://www.redcross.org.au/community-services.aspx
Relationships Australia
Support groups and counselling.
1300 364 277
https://www.relationships.org.au/
Salvation Army
A social welfare organisation that provides emergency relief and support to those in
need.
13 72 58
NT, SA, TAS, VIC and WA:
http://www.salvationarmy.org.au/Find-Us/?gclid=CPDE0Pa3z9ECFQ4KKgodRPUAPQ
ACT, NSW and QLD:
https://salvos.org.au/need-help/
St Vincent De Paul
A charity that provides emergency relief and support to those in need.
https://www.vinnies.org.au/
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Your GP/doctor
You can see your doctor for an appropriate referral depending on your needs.
Victims’ Compensation
ACT
Victim Support ACT
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm.
1800 822 272
(02) 6205 2066
https://www.victimsupport.act.gov.au/home
NSW
Victims Services NSW
Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 6pm.
Victims Access Line
1800 633 063
Aboriginal Contact Line
1800 019 123
http://www.victimsservices.justice.nsw.gov.au/
NT
Victims of Crime NT
Open Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm.
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1800 672 242
https://victimsofcrime.org.au/
QLD
Victims Assist QLD
Open Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5pm.
1300 546 587
https://www.qld.gov.au/law/crime-and-police/victims-and-witnesses-of-crime
SA
Victim Support Service SA
1800 842 846
http://www.victimsa.org/get-help
TAS
Victims Support Service TAS
1300 663 773
(03) 6165 7524
http://www.justice.tas.gov.au/victims
VIC
Victims of Crime VIC
Open every day, 8am – 11pm.
1800 819 817
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https://www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/home/
WA
Victims of Crime WA
Open Monday – Friday, 8.30am – 4.30pm.
1800 818 988
http://www.victimsofcrime.wa.gov.au/default.aspx
Money
Consumer, credit and debt legal services
Insurance Law Service
Open Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm.
1300 663 464
insurancelaw.org.au
For State/ Territory links to services that help with consumer, credit, and debt matters
see legal services.
Credit Reports For more information about credit reports, see:
ASIC’s Money Smart – Credit reports
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/borrowing-and-credit/borrowing-basics/credit-reports
Please note: if you check your credit report, your updated contact details will be
provided to your creditors.
You can check your credit report for free through these services:
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Dunn and Bradstreet
http://www.checkyourcredit.com.au/resources/forms/applicationforconsumercreditreportau.pdf
Equifax
http://www.equifax.com.au/
Experian
http://www.experian.com.au/
Dispute resolution schemes This section has links to free dispute resolution schemes.
You can lodge your dispute/complaint in a dispute resolution scheme to help resolve
your matter.
General Financial Ombudsman Service Australia
1800 367 287
http://www.fos.org.au/
Credit and Investments Ombudsman
1800 138 422
https://www.cio.org.au/
Electricity, gas and water
ACT
ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal
(02) 6207 1740
https://www.acat.act.gov.au/
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NSW
Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW
1800 246 545
https://www.ewon.com.au/
NT
Ombudsman NT
1800 806 380
www.ombudsman.nt.gov.au
QLD
Energy and Water Ombudsman QLD
1800 662 837
http://www.ewoq.com.au/
SA
Energy Industry Ombudsman SA
1800 665 565
http://www.ewosa.com.au/
TAS
Energy Ombudsman TAS
1800 001 170 http://www.energyombudsman.tas.gov.au/
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VIC
Energy and Water Ombudsman VIC
1800 500 509 https://www.ewov.com.au/
WA
Energy and Water Ombudsman WA
1800 117 000 http://www.ombudsman.wa.gov.au/
Phones Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
1800 062 058 http://www.tio.com.au/
Emergency money There are services that can help you if you need emergency money to pay for food,
bills or transport, and if you are experiencing severe financial hardship.
Community organisations To find your closest community organisation, you can:
Contact the Department of Social Services and ask to be put through to your
local emergency relief service or select ‘financial crisis’ and ‘material aid’.
o Monday – Friday, 8.30am – 5pm:
1300 653 227 http://serviceproviders.dss.gov.au/
Speak with a free financial counsellor for help and referrals through the National
Debt Helpline.
o Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm:
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1800 007 007 http://www.ndh.org.au/
If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you should let the
counsellor know as they can tell you about specific services. You can also
contact:
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488 ASIC Indigenous Helpline
300 365 957
Centrelink Contact Centrelink to find out if you are eligible for any benefits or crisis payments.
You need to act quickly because there are time limits; you have to apply for crisis
payments within seven days of the crisis event.
These payments should go into a bank account that is in your name only. It will help to
talk with a Centrelink social worker and tell them that you are experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV).
13 28 50
No interest loan scheme (NILS) If you have a health care card or pension card, you may be able to borrow some money
through the no interest loan scheme (NILS). NILS can lend money ($300 – $1,200) for
household goods and education essentials.
136 457
http://nils.com.au/
Employment This section has links to national, state and territory services that help with
employment matters.
National 1800 RESPECT
Counselling helpline, information and support.
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Open all day, every day.
1800 737 732
https://www.1800respect.org.au/
DV Work Aware
A national program to foster effective workplace responses to domestic and family
violence.
http://www.dvworkaware.org/
Fair Work Commission
1300 799 675
https://www.fwc.gov.au/
Fair Work Ombudsman
13 13 94
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/
Working Women’s Centre
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/
Your union may also be able to help you.
State/Territory Select your state:
ACT
ACT does not have a working women’s centre. However, you can contact a community
legal centre, Legal Aid ACT or a private solicitor. See legal services.
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NSW
NSW does not have a working women’s centre. However, you can contact a community
legal centre, Legal Aid NSW or a private solicitor. See legal services.
Women’s Legal Service NSW
(02) 8745 6954
http://www.wlsnsw.org.au/
NT
NT Working Women’s Centre
1800 817 055
http://www.ntwwc.com.au/
QLD
QLD Working Women’s Centre
1800 621 458
http://wwq.org.au/
SA
Working Women’s Centre SA
1800 652 697
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TAS
TAS does not have a working women’s centre. However, you can contact a community
legal centre, Legal Aid TAS or a private solicitor. See legal services.
Launceston Community Legal Centre
1800 066 019
(03) 6334 1577
http://www.lclc.net.au/
VIC
VIC does not have a working women’s centre. However you can contact a community
legal centre, Legal Aid VIC or a private solicitor. See legal services.
Job Watch
1800 331 617
WA
WA does not have a working women’s centre. However, you can contact a community
legal centre, Legal Aid WA or a private solicitor. See legal services.
Women’s Law Centre WA
Discrimination and harassment
1800 625 122
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http://www.wlcwa.org.au/
Employment Law Centre
Other matters
1300 130 956
https://elcwa.org.au/
Money This section has links to services that can help with your money matters.
Centrelink
13 28 50
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/centrelink
Child Support Agency (CSA)
131 272
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/contact-us/phone-us#childsupport
For local emergency relief services.
Open Monday – Friday, 8.30am – 5pm.
1300 653 227
http://serviceproviders.dss.gov.au/
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National Debt Helpline
Free financial counsellors to speak with about your money problems.
http://www.ndh.org.au/
Open Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4:30pm.
1800 007 007
Aboriginal Advice Service
1800 808 488
ASIC Indigenous Helpline
1300 365 957
No interest loan scheme (NILS)
136 457
http://nils.com.au/
Legal services This section has links to national, state and territory legal services.
For tenancy legal services see Housing services.
For visa and immigration legal services see Visa and immigration.
For consumer, credit and debt legal service see Money.
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National Women’s Legal Services Australia
http://www.wlsa.org.au/
Financial Rights Legal Centre
http://www.financialrights.org.au/
National Association of Community Legal Centres
http://www.naclc.org.au/clc_directory.php
National Family Violence Prevention Legal Services
http://www.nationalfvpls.org/
National Legal Aid
https://www.nationallegalaid.org/
National Welfare Rights
http://www.nssrn.org.au/
State/Territory
State/Territory
ACT
Consumer Law Centre ACT
1800 007 007
(02) 6257 1788
http://www.carefcs.org/consumer-law-centre-act.html
NSW
Financial Rights Legal Centre
Open Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm.
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1800 007 007
http://financialrights.org.au/
Redfern Legal Centre
(02) 9698 7277
http://rlc.org.au/
Welfare Rights Centre
1800 226 028
(02) 9211 5300
https://welfarerightscentre.org.au/
NT
Darwin Community Legal Centre
1800 812 953
(08) 8982 1111
https://www.dcls.org.au/
QLD
Basic Rights QLD
1800 358 511
(07) 3847 5532
https://www.brq.org.au/
Caxton Legal Centre
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 4.30pm.
(07) 3214 6333
Caxton Legal Centre
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https://caxton.org.au/
SA
Consumer Credit Law Centre
1300 886 220
(08) 8342 1800
Consumer Credit Law Centre
http://consumercreditsa.org/
SA Welfare Rights Centre
1800 246 287
(08) 8223 1338
SA Welfare Rights Centre
http://wrcsa.org.au/
TAS
Hobart Community Legal Service
(03) 6223 2500
1800 232 500
http://www.hobartlegal.org.au/
VIC
Consumer Action Law Centre
1800 466 477
(03) 9629 6300
http://consumeraction.org.au/
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Social Security Rights VIC
1800 094 164
(03) 9481 0355
http://www.ssrv.org.au/
WA
Consumer Credit Legal Service WA
(08) 9221 7066
https://cclswa.org.au/
Welfare Rights and Advocacy Service
(08) 9328 1751
http://www.wraswa.org.au/
Contact your community legal centre peak body for a referral to your local service:
ACT
Legal Aid ACT
1300 654 314
http://www.legalaidact.org.au/
NSW
Community Legal Centres NSW Inc
(03) 9212 7333
http://www.clcnsw.org.au/
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QLD
Community Legal Centres QLD
(07) 3392 0092
http://communitylegalqld.org.au/
SA
SA Council of Community Legal Services
(08) 8342 1800
http://www.saccls.org.au/
TAS
Legal Aid Commission of TAS
1300 366 611
Legal Aid Commission of TAS
VIC
Federation of Community Legal Centres (VIC) Inc
(03) 9652 1500
http://www.fclc.org.au/find_a_clc.php
WA
Community Legal Centres Association (WA) Inc
(08) 9221 9322
https://www.communitylaw.net/
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Contact your local legal aid office to talk to a lawyer and apply for funding:
ACT
Legal Aid ACT
1300 654 314
http://www.legalaidact.org.au/
NSW
Legal Aid NSW
1300 888 529
http://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/
NT
NT Legal Aid Commission
1800 019 343
http://www.naclc.org.au/cb_pages/state_associations.php
QLD
Community Legal Centres QLD
(07) 3392 0092
http://communitylegalqld.org.au/
SA
Law Services Commission of SA
1300 366 424
http://www.lsc.sa.gov.au/
TAS
Legal Aid Commission of TAS
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1300 366 611
https://www.legalaid.tas.gov.au/
VIC
VIC Legal Aid
1300 792 387
http://www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/
WA
Legal Aid WA
1300 650 579
https://www.legalaid.wa.gov.au/Pages/Default.aspx
Contact your local law society to find a private solicitor:
ACT
ACT Law Society
(02) 6274 0300
https://www.actlawsociety.asn.au/
NSW
Legal Aid NSW
1300 888 529
http://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/
NSW
Legal Aid NSW
1300 888 529
Legal Aid NSW
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NT
Law Society NT
(08) 8981 5104
http://lawsocietynt.asn.au/
QLD
QLD Law Society
1300 367 757
https://www.qls.com.au/Home
SA
Law Society of SA
(08) 8229 0200
https://www.lawsocietysa.asn.au/
TAS
Law Society of TAS
(03) 6234 4133
http://lst.org.au/
VIC
Law Institute of VIC
(03) 9607 9311
https://www.liv.asn.au/
WA
Law Society of WA
(08) 9324 8600
https://www.lawsocietywa.asn.au/
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Visa and immigration
This section has links to national, state and territory legal services that help with visa and immigration matters.
For more information, see culturally and linguistically diverse services.
National
To find a community legal centre in your state or territory that provides immigration
legal advice, see:
National Association of Community Legal Centres (NACLC) http://www.naclc.org.au/
Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) https://www.asrc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/National-Directory-of-Asylum-Seeker-and-Refugee-Service-Providers-August-2013.pdf
State/Territory
ACT
Companion House (02) 6251 4550
http://www.companionhouse.org.au/
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NSW
Immigration Advice and Rights Centre (02) 8234 0700
http://www.iarc.asn.au/
Open Tuesday & Thursday, 2pm – 4pm.
(02) 8234 0799
Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS) (02) 8355 7227
http://www.racs.org.au/
NT
Multicultural Council of NT (08) 8945 9122
1800 031 418
http://www.mcnt.org.au/
NT Legal Aid Commission
Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 4.30pm.
(08) 8999 3000
1800 019 343
https://www.legalaid.nt.gov.au/
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QLD
Refugee and Immigration Legal Service (RAILS)
Open Monday – Friday, 10am – 1pm and 2pm – 4pm.
(07) 3846 9300
http://www.rails.org.au/
SA
Refugee Advocacy Service of SA
Open Monday – Wednesday, 9am – 5pm.
0401 247 224
https://rassa.org.au/
TAS
Refugee Legal Service [email protected]
http://rlstas.com/
VIC
Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) (03) 9326 6066
https://www.asrc.org.au/
Refugee Legal
Open Wednesday & Friday, 10am – 2pm.
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(03) 9413 0100
http://refugeelegal.org.au/
WA
The Humanitarian Group
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 3pm.
(08) 9227 7311
http://thehumanitariangroup.org.au/
Children
This section has links to services that help with parenting matters.
For legal referrals see: Legal
My Child Gov
Online child care portal.
https://www.mychild.gov.au/
Centrelink https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/centrelink
Child Support Agency 131 272
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/contact-us/phone-us#childsupport
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Housing This section has links to national, state and territory services for emergency housing,
tenancy and property settlement matters.
For referrals regarding property settlement matters see Legal.
Emergency housing If you do not have a safe place to stay, you should contact 1800 RESPECT. They
can refer you to a service to help you find emergency housing. You can also use
this service to plan your next steps if you are living in the same property as your
(ex) partner.
1800RESPECT
1800 737 732
https://www.1800respect.org.au/get-help/
You can find the details of local services in your area:
Homelessness Australia http://www.homelessnessaustralia.org.au/are-you-experiencing-homelessness
ASIC’s MoneySmart – Urgent money help https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/managing-debts/trouble-with-debt/urgent-money-help?utm_source=wlsq.org.au&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=penda
You should think about your safety and contact a support service.
Read property settlement.
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Tenancy matters This section has links to state and territory legal services that help with tenancy
matters. For further information see Legal.
State/Territory
ACT
Tenants Union ACT
(02) 6247 1026
(02) 6247 2011
http://www.tenantsact.org.au/
NSW
To find a service near you, see
Tenants Org
https://www.tenants.org.au/
NT
Darwin Community Legal Service
1800 812 953
(08) 8982 1111
https://www.dcls.org.au/legal-and-advocacy-services/tenants-advice/
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QLD
Tenants QLD
1300 744 263
(07) 3832 9403
https://tenantsqld.org.au/
SA
Legal Services Commission SA
1300 366 424
http://www.lsc.sa.gov.au/
Women’s Legal Service SA
(08) 8221 5553
https://www.wlssa.org.au/
TAS
Tenants Union TAS
Open Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4pm.
1300 652 641
(03) 6223 2641
http://tutas.org.au/
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VIC
Tenants Union VIC
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm.
(03) 9416 2577
https://www.tuv.org.au/
WA
Tenancy WA
Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 4.30pm.
(08) 9221 0088 (metro)
1800 621 888 (country)
http://www.tenancywa.org.au/
Wellness
This section has links to support services and wellness resources. For other services,
see support services.
1800 RESPECT Counselling helpline, information and support.
Open all day, every day.
1800 737 732
https://www.1800respect.org.au/
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Headspace app
http://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app
Stop Breathe Think app
https://www.stopbreathethink.com/
Smiling Mind app
https://smilingmind.com.au/smiling-mind-app/
Eat for Health
https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/
Department of Health – Physical activity
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/phy-activity
Not The Only One
http://nottheonlyone.org.au/
Information
General information
1800 RESPECT – Daisy app
https://www.1800respect.org.au/daisy/%3B/
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Financy – Women’s Money Magazine
https://www.financy.com.au/
Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria
http://www.dvrcv.org.au/support-services/national-services
Legal information Girls Gotta Know – Legal information for young women
http://girlsgottaknow.com.au/
Re-focus app – Legal information
https://www.wlsq.org.au/resources/legal-toolkit/re-focus-app/
Find Law
http://www.findlaw.com.au/default.aspx
Law Stuff
http://www.lawstuff.org.au/
Women’s Legal Service QLD – Fact sheets
https://www.wlsq.org.au/resources/legal-toolkit/national-infosheets
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Glossary
Beneficiary: A beneficiary is a person who receives a benefit or advantage (usually
money) from a will, trust, life insurance or superannuation policy.
Binding nomination: When a policy holder chooses who their superannuation
should be paid to if they die, they are making a binding nomination. This means the
trustee of a superannuation fund must pay the death benefit to the person listed in the
binding nomination.
Borrower: A borrower is a person who gets money under a loan contract and has a
legal obligation to pay it back.
Breach: A breach happens when the conditions of a court order are broken. Court
orders include family law court orders or domestic and family violence orders (DFV
Order). Breaching a DFV Order can be a criminal offence and if your (ex) partner
breaches the order, you should contact the police. Breaching family law court orders
can also have consequences. You should get legal advice about this.
Caveat: A caveat is a notice that protects your estate or interest in a property.
Caveats stop the registered owner from selling or transferring ownership of the
property without your permission. Caveats are lodged through the titles office in your
state or territory. To lodge a caveat you have to explain the reason for your interest in
the property. You should get legal advice about this.
Child support: Child support refers to the financial support of children paid by a
parent. It is a legal obligation.
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Chronology: A chronology is the arrangement of events or dates in the order of their
occurrence. For example, ‘on 1 January 2000, we got bought a house in joint names’.
Coercion and Control: Coercion and control are types of domestic and family
violence. For example, your (ex) partner might:
Follow you
Know where you are all the time
Go into your personal information (such as your email account)
Keep information from you
Harass you with calls, texts or emails
Prevent you from seeing your friends or family
Consent: Consent is giving your permission to do something.
De facto: A de facto relationship is when two people are in a ‘marriage like’
relationship. It includes same-sex relationships. The court can look at a number of
things to determine whether a de facto relationship existed between two people, such
as the length of the relationship, the care and support of children, and the nature and
extent of their common residence. If you are unsure, you should get legal advice
about this.
Debt collector: A debt collector can be:
A person or organisation who is employed to collect debts for creditors, or
A specialist debt collection organisation who buys debts from creditors.
Debtor: A debtor is a person who owes money to another person or company. The
person may owe money for an unpaid loan, car accident, or a service such as legal fees
or education expenses.
Default: Default happens when you don’t pay a debt.
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Domestic and Family Violence (DFV): The definition of domestic and family
violence (DFV) is different depending on your state or territory. It covers abuse
committed by one person against another. It can occur in intimate relationships,
family relationships or carer relationships.
DFV is about gaining or keeping power and control over another person causing fear
and intimidation. It includes different types of abuse such as:
coercion and control emotional abuse financial abuse neglect physical abuse sexual abuse spiritual abuse systems abuse technology abuse threats and intimidation verbal abuse
Domestic and family violence order: A domestic and family violence order (DFV order) is called something different in each state and territory.
It is a court order to protect you against future domestic and family violence (DFV).
It will have conditions about what the other person named on the order cannot do to
you.
If the other person does those things, it is a breach and can be reported to the police.
The order can be temporary (in place until a final decision is made) or final (in place for
a certain amount of time).
Emotional abuse: Emotional abuse is a type of domestic and family violence. For
example, your (ex) partner might:
Manipulate you
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Emotionally blackmail you
Threaten to release intimate images or videos of you
Threaten to ‘out’ you if you are in a same sex relationship
Play ‘mind games’ to make you think you are crazy
Make threats to kill or harm themselves to control your behaviour.
You can find out more information on:
1800 RESPECT – What is domestic and family violence?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/family-friends/common-questions/what-is-domestic-family-violence/
Exemption: An exemption means you are free from doing something you had to. For
example, not having to pay a certain fee or pay back a debt.
Family Dispute Resolution: Family dispute resolution (FDR) is a process to help you
and your (ex) partner try and reach agreement without going to court. It is a
formal meeting with your (ex) partner and a FDR practitioner to try and work out your
dispute. An FDR practitioner is a neutral and independent person; this means that they
are not on your side, and they are not on your (ex) partner’s side.
For more information, see:
Relationships Australia
https://www.relationships.org.au/
Financial abuse: Financial abuse is a type of domestic and family violence. For example,
your (ex) partner might:
Give you a small budget or no money at all
Control the finances
Keep money from you
Monitor your spending
Stop you from working or studying
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Stop you from making financial decisions
Stop you accessing a bank account, cash, benefits or your pension
Demand money from you
Keep your property
Force you to sign documents and take on debts
You can take a quiz to find out if you have experienced financial abuse and read
information about relationship debt here:
Women Talk Money – Financial abuse
https://www.womentalkmoney.org.au/financial-abuse
Women’s Information and Resource Exchange (WIRE) – Money and debt
https://www.wire.org.au/money-and-debt/
Financial hardship: Financial hardship is when you cannot make the repayments on
your loans and debts when they are due because you do not have enough money.
Guarantor: A guarantor is a person who signs a contract with a lender that says that
they will have to pay back the loan if the borrower does not pay. The guarantor’s house
is often given as security and can be sold if the loan is not repaid.
Health directive: A health directive is a legal document prepared by someone that
details what actions should be taken if they are no longer able to make decisions for
themselves because of illness or incapacity.
Interest rates: Interest rates are the percentage of the total loan or deposit that you
have to pay to the bank or lender, in addition to the total amount you borrowed.
Intimate relationship: An intimate relationship is a very close, personal relationship
with someone such as your spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend, or long-term partner.
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Legal proceedings: If you have started a court action, or if someone has started a
court action against you, this is called a legal proceeding. This includes if you have been
served with court documents, have court orders, are going through legal proceedings
or your (ex) partner or their lawyer has sent you a letter and wants you to respond.
Neglect: Neglect is a type of domestic and family violence that may happen if your (ex)
partner is your carer. For example, your (ex) partner might neglect you if they:
Refuse to help you with your daily tasks such as wash you or feed you, or do it in
a hurtful way
Keep your medication
Refuse to take you to your appointments
Insist on going into your appointments with you
Next of kin: Your next of kin is your closest living relative or relatives.
Overdraft: An overdraft is when you can take more money out of your bank account
than you have deposited into it. The money will have to be paid back, usually with fees
and interest added.
Permanent resident: A permanent resident is a non-citizen of Australia who holds a
permanent visa and can work and live in Australia without restriction.
Physical abuse: Physical abuse is a type of domestic and family violence. For example,
your (ex) partner might:
Hit, flog, or bash you
Punch, shove, or kick you
Strangle you
Hurt your pets
Damage your property
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Policy: An insurance policy is the terms and conditions of the insurance contract.
Policy holder: A policy holder is a person who has a policy.
Property settlement: Property settlement is the division of property (assets and
debts) between you and your (ex) partner after separation.
Reasonable: What is “reasonable” will depend on your circumstances and will be
different for each person and family. If possible you should get legal advice about
what is reasonable in your situation.
Redraw facility: A redraw facility is something attached to your mortgage or loan
that lets you take out more money from your loan, which will have to be repaid.
Repossession: Repossession is when the lender takes possession of goods or land
because a loan or lease is not repaid. Often the goods or land have been used as
security for a loan or lease.
Reproductive control: Reproductive control is a type of domestic and family
violence and can be linked to sexual abuse. For example, your (ex) partner might:
Try and control your birth control
Force you to terminate a pregnancy or to fall pregnant
Safety plan: A safety plan helps you to think about your situation and develop a plan
of action in case it becomes unsafe. It is made to suit you and your children’s
circumstances and promotes safety when experiencing domestic and family violence.
Separation: Separation is when a relationship ends on a final basis. You can tell your
(ex) partner directly that the relationship is over, or evidence can show that the
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relationship is over (such as no longer being intimate with one another and that you are
both sleeping in separate rooms). You and your (ex) partner can be separated even if
you are living under the same roof.
Sexual abuse: Sexual abuse is a type of domestic and family violence. For example,
your (ex) partner might:
Touch you or kiss you without your consent
Force you to have sex
For more information, see:
1800 RESPECT – What is sexual assault
https://www.1800respect.org.au/get-help/common-questions/what-is-sexual-assault/
Social abuse: Social abuse is a type of domestic and family violence. For example,
your (ex) partner might:
Ridicule or criticise your friends and family
Stop you from being with them or contacting them
Take you away from them
Publicly humiliate, belittle, or shame you.
Spiritual abuse: Spiritual abuse is a type of domestic and family violence. For
example, your (ex) partner might:
Force you to join a group
Stop you from practising your faith or participating in your culture
Speak badly about you in your spiritual or cultural community
Systems abuse: Systems abuse is a type of domestic and family violence. For
example, your (ex) partner might:
Repeatedly threaten to or take you to court
Threaten to use or manipulate the legal system against you
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Report you to authorities such as the Child Support Agency to reduce or
prevent your payment
Technology abuse: Technology abuse is a type of domestic and family violence
where someone uses technology and devices to control and abuse you. For example,
your (ex) partner might:
Track you on your devices
Put spyware on your devices
Threaten to share intimate photos of you (which is called image based abuse in
some states and territories).
For more information about image based abuse, see:
eSafety – Image based abuse
https://www.esafety.gov.au/esafety-information/esafety-issues/image-based-abuse
Threats and intimidation: Threats and intimidation are a type of domestic and
family violence. For example, your (ex) partner might:
Make threats or try and intimidate you such as threaten to hit you and the
children
Threaten to kill you and make you feel unsafe as if you are ‘walking on eggshells’
Utility provider: A utility provider supplies an essential service such as electricity or
water. Examples of utility providers in Australia are Telstra and Energex.
Verbal abuse: Verbal abuse is a type of domestic and family violence that can be
linked to emotional abuse. For example, your (ex) partner might abuse you verbally if
they:
Use bad or offensive language towards you
Call you names
Put you down
Yell and scream at you
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Waive: If a lender waives a debt (or gives you a waiver) you are released from the debt
or claim. This means you will not have to pay the debt.
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For other questions, queries or information on supporting Penda please
contact Women’s Legal Service Queensland on 07 3392 0644 or