Refuge Victoria

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Refuge Victoria

Refuge Victoria provides specialist family violence services in Victoria.

Our client referrals are made via Safe Steps — if you are seeking family violence support services, please call Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.

22/08/2026

This Brain Injury Awareness Week, we want to shine a light on the hidden and often overlooked link between family violence and brain injury.

Women who experience violence may live with symptoms such as memory loss, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating or fatigue, long after the immediate danger has passed.

These invisible injuries can affect recovery, employment, parenting and overall wellbeing.

We believe every victim-survivor deserves support that recognises the full impact of violence, including the injuries we cannot see.

Awareness creates understanding. Understanding creates change.

20/08/2026

We're hiring!

Are you passionate about supporting women and children to live safer, stronger lives?

We're looking for a dedicated Case Manager and Support Worker to join our team. If you're driven by purpose, value meaningful connections, and want to make a lasting impact in your community, we'd love to hear from you.

For more information and to apply, head to: https://refugevictoria.org.au/get-involved/work-opportunities/ 💜

15/08/2026

We have been so fortunate to receive kitchen packs through DV Collective and their partnership with Bunzl Processor Division for our clients as they exit refuge and begin the next chapter of their journey.

These practical packs will help women and children settling into transitional or long-term housing get set up in their new homes with essential kitchen items, making the transition a little easier during what can often be a challenging time.

We know that creating a safe and comfortable home is an important step in rebuilding after family violence, and support like this can make a meaningful difference.

A huge thank you to The DV Collective and Bunzl for their generosity and commitment to supporting victim-survivors in our community. 💜

12/08/2026

International Youth Day 💜

More than half of the people Refuge Victoria supports are children and young people.

Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience and potential of the young people in our communities. We also recognise that every child and young person deserves to grow up safe, supported, and free from violence.

By listening to young people, amplifying their voices, and providing the support they need, we can help create safer futures for the next generation.

Because every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive.

08/08/2026

Today, on International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, we celebrate the cultures, knowledge, resilience, and contributions of Indigenous peoples around the world.

We pay particular respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work, and recognise their enduring connection to Country, community, family, and culture.

At Refuge Victoria, we acknowledge the ongoing impacts of colonisation and systemic inequality, and we are committed to supporting a future where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can live safely, thrive, and exercise self-determination.

Today is an opportunity to listen, learn, and elevate Indigenous voices, stories, and leadership. ❤️💛🖤

06/08/2026

What is visa abuse?

Visa abuse is a form of legal abuse and is when someone in a family-like relationship exploits the fact that another person is without permanent residency or citizenship as a way to exert power and control over them. Swipe through this post to see some examples of what visa abuse could look like.

Visa abuse is usually not singular, and comes alongside other forms of abuse.

Regardless of your visa status, help is available.

If you are experiencing visa abuse or any other form of family violence, please call Safe Steps for help and support.
📞 1800 015 188 📧 [email protected] 💬 safesteps.org.au/live-chat

30/07/2026

There are many barriers that can make it difficult to leave a violent relationship. What's less understood is the unique challenges faced by victim-survivors on temporary or non-permanent visas.

At Refuge Victoria, a significant portion of those we support are non-permanent residents. Their experiences of family violence can be shaped by additional layers of fear, uncertainty and control.

For some, their visa status may be tied to the person using violence. Others may be threatened with deportation, separation from their children, or the loss of their future in Australia if they seek help. Coercive control can also mean they have little to no access to the documents or evidence needed to navigate complex immigration processes.

This article by Tahlia Roy highlights some of the legal and systemic challenges migrant victim-survivors face, including the difficulty of proving a relationship was "genuine" when abuse itself may have prevented them from accessing shared finances, leases or other records.

Read the article here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-07-20/dfv-survivors-made-to-prove-genuine-relationship/106869206

27/07/2026

We're turning 50. 🎉

Today, we're launching our 50th Anniversary logo, celebrating and recognising five decades of supporting women and children experiencing family violence.

This milestone is an opportunity to celebrate the vision of the brave women who founded our organisation, honour the resilience of the women and children who have sought safety through refuge, and thank the community that has supported our mission for the past 50 years.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

26/07/2026

📣 We're Hiring: Refuge Manager

Are you an experienced and compassionate leader looking to make a meaningful impact?

We're seeking a Refuge Manager to lead our refuge services, supporting women and children escaping family violence. This role oversees day-to-day refuge operations, leads a dedicated multidisciplinary team, and helps ensure clients receive safe, high-quality, trauma-informed support.

If you're passionate about creating safer futures and thrive in a dynamic, purpose-driven environment, we'd love to hear from you.

🔗 Apply now via SEEK: https://au.seek.com/job/93392720

Please share with your networks to help us find the right person for this important role.

24/07/2026

SAFETY ALERT REMINDER 🚨

The Australian Government is launching AusAlert – a new national warning system that sends emergency messages to compatible mobile devices. Next month, on 27 July, 2pm (AEST) a test alert will go out to ALL mobile devices across Australia.

For victim survivors, this could pose a risk - especially if you: - live with or are monitored by a person using violence - have a hidden/secret phone for safety

The alert may sound or appear on ANY active device - including phones you keep hidden.

Plan ahead:
- Think about where your device will be at that time
- Consider turning it off or moving it somewhere safer
- Make a plan in case the alert is seen or heard
- Reach out to a support service if you can

Your safety comes first ❤️

To learn more about the alert and additional info head to https://wesnet.org.au/aus-alert/

Address

Melbourne, VIC

Website

https://refugevictoria.org.au/

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