22 April 2025
- 94% of NSW specialist domestic violence services saw increased demand between May-March 2024-25 vs. prior year)
- 2 months average wait for critical support
- 33 people on average per waitlist (ranging from 3 to 180)
One year after the NSW government’s Emergency Package, domestic violence services are beyond breaking point. New data from Domestic Violence NSW (DVNSW) reveals an alarming 94% of specialist DFV services* reporting a spike in demand – yet with no baseline funding increase, they are collapsing under the weight of need.
Across metro and regional NSW, specialist domestic and family violence services report waitlists stretching for weeks to months. Some services have had no choice but to close their books altogether while trying meet demand.
Delia Donovan, CEO of DVNSW says without an increase to funding, the reality is dire for victim-survivors and the sector as a whole.
“These services are the frontline responders to the domestic violence crisis. It’s like sending a paramedic to a major emergency with just one ambulance – forced to make impossible choices about who gets help and who is left without life- Saving support.”
“We need proper resourcing for victim-survivors and the frontline services – investment that ensures every person at risk, has somewhere safe to turn,” Ms Donovan said.
The data highlights that systemic issues can’t be fixed through temporary injections of money and program expansions alone. A meaningful and long-term investment in baseline funding is needed in the upcoming NSW budget if the government is serious about working to end domestic and family violence.
“For years now, a baseline funding increase has been our top priority budget ask. More than ever, it’s needed to keep frontline services running and ensure women and children escaping violence have somewhere to turn,” Ms Donovan said.
Ending domestic and family violence requires real investment – because failing to act is costing lives.
* Services represented in the data include Staying Home Leaving Violence programs, crisis and refuge support, Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy services, case management, leaving violence support programs and counselling services.