Life-changing outcomes through integrated support

*Hannah* first connected with our internal DFV Casework Team in 2023 after separating from her former partner, Peter*, the father of her two children. She disclosed a history of escalating domestic violence, including verbal and emotional abuse, physical assaults and ongoing threats after separation. She was assessed as needing intensive support, particularly around safety planning, home security and linking in with specialist services.

In late 2024, her DFV Caseworker reached out to the legal team. Hannah wanted to apply for an Immediate Needs Support Package (INSP), but her caseworker was concerned the situation was more complicated than a standard application given the seriousness of the violence, the ongoing threats and the overlap with family law issues. It was clear she would benefit from working closely with both teams.

We prioritised an in-person appointment to create space for Hannah to speak openly and feel supported. Taking the time to meet face to face and move at her pace was critical. During these conversations, Hannah disclosed for the first time to our Solicitor that she had experienced sexual assault during the relationship, in addition to the previously reported physical violence. 

Although Hannah had moved with her children to a new apartment she was still in contact with Peter so that he could see the kids but she admitted to our Solicitor that she still felt unsafe as only a few months ago during a handover of the children he had made threats to kill her. Our solicitor lodged an INSP application and Hannah was awarded $5,000 which enabled her to move to a property unknown to Peter and included $1,500 for personal security cameras. This assistance reduced immediate housing stress and significantly improved safety for her and her children.

We also made two recognition payment applications to Victim Services for the domestic violence and the sexual assaults. Our Solicitor worked closely with the caseworker and Hannah’s counsellor to ensure the supporting material was comprehensive and clearly differentiated the injuries arising from each type of violence. The legal team’s recent experience has been that Victim Services often minimises psychological injury and frequently treats multiple incidents of domestic violence as a single ongoing course of conduct, resulting in only one payment. To address this risk, the reports carefully documented the cumulative and distinct impacts of the sexual assaults and the prolonged domestic violence. Victim Services awarded $10,000 for multiple acts of violence including sexual assault and a further $5,000 for domestic violence amounting to grievous bodily harm.

At the same time that our Solicitor was assisting Hannah with Victim Services, Hannah told her she had initiated a family law mediation because she felt she “should” agree to Peter spending more time with the kids. Jane*, a senior JSC family lawyer, advised Hannah that if Peter initiated mediation, she could participate, but she did not have to set up or agree to mediation simply because of family pressure. This guidance reassured Hannah, helping her make informed decisions that prioritised her and her children’s safety and wellbeing.

This matter demonstrates the value of integrated casework and legal support. By working collaboratively, taking the time to build trust, and addressing safety, housing, victims compensation and family law issues together, we supported Hannah to access justice, strengthen her safety and regain a sense of control over her future.

The client also expressed the following feedback recently…
As my matter has comes to a close, I just wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you for all the work and support you’ve provided throughout this process.

I know how much time, preparation, and follow-up went into my case, and I truly appreciate the effort and attention you gave it. Your professionalism and dedication were clear every step of the way. I also want to thank you for the way you handled everything with patience and understanding. During what was a very stressful period for me, you made sure I felt heard and informed, which made a real difference. I’m very grateful for your support and the outcome you helped me achieve. Thank you again for everything you’ve done.

*Names changed to protect privacy