Women and children leaving a violent relationship now have access to a one-off payment of up to $5,000 under a new trial scheme. The support will include up to $1,500 in cash, with the remainder of the money available for goods and services or direct payments of bonds, school fees, or other essential items to help establish a safe home. The Escaping Violence Payment was announced in the May budget as part of a $1.1 billion women’s safety package of programs.

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The program commenced on 19 October and is expected to support up to 24,000 people across Australia over the next two years. Wesley Mission will deliver the pilot program in NSW alongside a consortium of other organisations across Australia. The community services organisations will be able to arrange referrals or connections with other appropriate services so people can get the additional help to establish a home free from violence. The payment is not considered taxable or reportable income, and will not impact any other social security payments a recipient may be getting.

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Eligibility includes financial stress and evidence of domestic violence, which includes, but is not limited to, a referral from a family and domestic violence service provider with a risk assessment and safety plan, an AVO, court order, or a police report.

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For more information about how to access the payment in NSW and ACT, email EVP@wesleymission.org.au

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If you are in danger, call 000 for Police. If you are experiencing family violence and need support or advice, call 1800 RESPECT or the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63.

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