While immediate assistance is an important part of the service, 1800NQSAFE is designed to do more than respond in times of crisis. The service helps people understand their options, navigate support systems, connect with local services and build pathways towards longer-term safety, recovery and wellbeing.

As part of the broader North Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Networked Hub, and funded by the Queensland Government, 1800NQSAFE aims to strengthen coordination between services, improve referral pathways, and make it easier for people to access the support they need.

Donna Shkalla, Group Executive, Family and Disability Services, UnitingCare, said the service had been developed to ensure support is available whenever people need it.

"The need for safety and support doesn't stop at the end of the business day. Domestic and family violence can escalate at any hour, and when someone is ready to reach out for help, it's critical that support is there."
 

"While we would all like to see a future where services like this aren't needed, the reality is that too many people across North Queensland continue to experience domestic and family violence."
 

"1800NQSAFE is about helping people access the right support at the right time. It provides a pathway to specialist support, safety planning and practical assistance, while helping people connect with the services they need to work towards longer-term safety and recovery."

When someone contacts 1800NQSAFE, they will speak with a specialist domestic and family violence practitioner who can provide support, assess immediate safety concerns, assist with safety planning and connect people with the most appropriate services and supports based on their individual circumstances.

The service is available to people impacted by domestic and family violence, including victim-survivors of all gender identities. Family members, friends and support people who are concerned about someone may also seek information and guidance. People seeking support to change their behaviour can also be connected with appropriate specialist services and support pathways.

1800NQSAFE works alongside existing domestic and family violence services and is designed to strengthen connections across the support system, helping people find and access the services that best meet their needs. 1800NQSAFE 

Accessing support

1800NQSAFE is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week across:

• Townsville
• Palm Island
• Burdekin
• Hinchinbrook

To access support, call 1800 677 233.

If you are located outside these areas and require domestic and family violence support, contact DVConnect for support and referral assistance.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.