Anita* arrived in Australia on a Tourist Visa in 2023, later applying for a Student Visa and subsequently a Protection Visa, which remains under review.  

Little did she know that her path would lead her through immense challenges, including an abusive relationship that would negatively impact her livelihood and safety.  

After meeting her partner, Anita moved in with him and his mother.  

Unfortunately, what began as a support system soon turned into a nightmare. Throughout her pregnancy, Anita endured serious violence; physical and emotional abuse inflicted by her ex-partner, who was also a known criminal offender.  

The situation escalated to the point that law enforcement became involved, and an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) was issued against him. 

As her relationship deteriorated, Anita found herself compelled to leave the home that belonged to her partner’s mother, a decision loaded with uncertainty and fear. With nowhere to turn, she often slept rough, moving from one friend’s house to another.  

Eventually, she found herself in a desperate situation, forced to sleep in her car with her three-month-old child, surrounded by her few personal possessions.  

In the midst of these struggles, Anita was referred to the Finding Safety Project by another organisation she had been involved with. While the team made significant efforts to locate a refuge for her, it proved challenging, as many shelters were at capacity.  

However, our specialist SGBV caseworker at the Finding Safety team persevered, searching tirelessly for available accommodations. After several days of relentless effort, there was a call from a shelter confirming, “We accept your application, and the client can move in tomorrow.” 

Upon being informed of her approval for shelter, Anita expressed sheer relief and joy, stating: “Thank you for helping me and my son get a roof over our head. No matter how the place looks, I will stay there. All I need now is a good sleep and safety.”  

Finding a shelter for clients on Temporary Visas is a difficult task, often filled with numerous rejections and a seemingly endless search for availability. Each successful referral, therefore, represents a victory and a significant cause for celebration. 

At the Finding Safety Project, our steadfast commitment is to ensure that women like Anita receive the safety and security they deserve. Enabling them to find a safe home isn’t merely a priority; it is our mission and deepest wish.

However, it should not be so hard. Policies are in place that prevent women seeking asylum from accessing support systems, gaining independence, and finding safety. Decisions have been made not to provide adequate funding to enable crisis, temporary and transitional accomodation providers to accept women seeking asylum.

This Homelessness Week, you can advocate for change. Learn more here.

*Anita’s name has been changed to protect her identity.