Leaving Violence Program

Beware of misleading websites

The Department of Social Services are aware of unauthorised websites containing misleading and inaccurate information about the Escaping Violence Payment trial and Leaving Violence Program, some of which may appear as search results through web browsers. Some of these websites have hyperlinked information about one-off $5,000 payments through the Leaving Violence Program. You should not click on links from these websites or provide personal information that may put you at risk. This includes contact initiated through social media offering Escaping Violence Payment trial or Leaving Violence Program payments, either from an unfamiliar account or from an existing ‘friend’ contact profile that has been taken over by a scammer.

Information about the Escaping Violence Payment trial or Leaving Violence Program should only be obtained from trusted sources, such as this website, the UnitingCare Network, the Australian Red Cross and Commonwealth funded Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Support Services.

If you are concerned about scam attempts in relation to the Escaping Violence Payment trial or Leaving Violence Program, do not provide any personal or financial information.  You can report it to the Department of Social Services, contact fraud@dss.gov.au.

For further advice on scams is available from the National Anti-Scam Centre: Scamwatch

On 1 May 2024, the Australian Government announced the investment of $925.2 million over five years to establish the Leaving Violence Program for victim-survivors leaving a violent intimate partner relationship.

The program will commence in mid-2025, following the procurement of a service provider with family, domestic and sexual violence experience.

The Leaving Violence Program will provide eligible victim-survivors, regardless of gender or visa status, with an individualised financial support package of up to $5,000. Packages will include up to $1,500 in cash and up to $3,500 in goods and services, as well as safety planning, risk assessment and referrals to other essential services for up to 12 weeks.

Information about the tender process will be made available on AusTender. Interested parties are encouraged to register to receive email notifications of new open business opportunities and/or Planned Procurements.

The existing Escaping Violence Payment trial and the Temporary Visa Holders Experiencing Violence Pilot will be extended to 30 June 2025 whilst the Leaving Violence Program is established.

Further information and resources

  • The UnitingCare Network is delivering the Escaping Violence Payment trial to individuals Australia-wide.
  • Information about accessing financial assistance for temporary visa holders is available from the Australian Red Cross.
  • Information about other programs provided by the Australian Government can be found at safety programs.
  • If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via www.1800RESPECT.org.au, or text 0458 737 732. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you call the Men’s Referral Service on  1300 766 491 or visit the Men’s Referral Service online. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Feeling worried or no good? No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. Speak to a 13YARN Crisis Supporter, call 13 92 76. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Last updated: