More families in Western NSW will gain access to crucial domestic and family violence support, with new Integrated Domestic and Family Violence Service (IDFVS) providers launching in regions including the Warrumbungle and Far West.

The program, which delivers intensive case management and wraparound support for women, children and families escaping violence, will be delivered by Maaruma-Li in the Warrumbungle Local Government Area, and Mirrimpilyi Muurpa-nara across the Broken Hill and Central Darling Local Government Areas (LGA).

Funded through a $13.7 million expansion under the state’s broader $230 million domestic violence emergency package, the new services aim to close critical gaps in access to support across rural and remote NSW.

The IDFVS program takes a whole-of-family approach, supporting adult and child victim-survivors as well as engaging with those using violence to reduce risk and increase safety. Case managers provide safety assessments, individualised safety plans and referrals to services such as Men’s Behaviour Change Programs, housing, counselling and legal aid.

In 2024–25, more than 1000 additional women and children are expected to benefit from the expansion, which brings the total number of IDFVS providers to 17 across 20 local government areas.

The program’s impact has been life-changing for many participants. Jenny*, a survivor supported by Catholic Care Broken Bay, described how her caseworker helped her rebuild her life after years of abuse.

“When I first met my caseworker, I was living in fear,” she said. “My caseworker supported me to leave my violent and abusive ex-partner and keep my children with me...

"My children and I are now safe. We are healing, recovering and starting to rebuild our new lives free from fear, abuse, violence and the threat of violence,” Jenny said.

The State Government said the expansion into the Warrumbungle and Far West regions reflects its broader commitment to ensuring all families – no matter how remote their community – can access the support they need to live safely and recover from violence.

* Name changed to protect privacy and safety.

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Support:

  • If you are worried about your own behaviour and use of violence, contact the Men's Referral Service on 1300 766 491. https://ntv.org.au/mrs/
  • If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero/000.
  • If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76.
  • https://1800respect.org.au/
  • https://www.13yarn.org.au/