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Resources and support services
Domestic and family violence can affect anyone, including all age groups, demographics and regions. It is never okay, and you have a right to be safe.
The following services provide support and information for people experiencing domestic violence. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
North Shore
Mary's House supports women and their children to escape and recover from domestic and family violence. Their services include Mary's House refuge, which provides immediate critical care, safety and shelter. Mary's House is a community-funded, not-for-profit organisation.
The North Sydney Community Directory lists more services, including:
- helplines
- accommodation and housing
- advocacy, legal and support services
- child protection
- practical support services
NSW and Australia-wide helplines
The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 656 463) is a 24-hour helpline providing counselling and referrals for women experiencing domestic violence. Caseworkers can help you access care and support services, develop a safety plan, find emergency accommodation, talk to the police and more.
1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) is a 24-hour helpline offering confidential information, counselling and support for people (including men) affected by domestic, family or sexual violence.
Ask Izzy is a website that connects people in crisis with services, without needing to have access to data, credit or wifi (if you're on Telstra or Vodafone networks).
Council's commitment to action
Council is committed to preventing and eliminating domestic and family violence, and fostering safety for everyone in our community.
Council hosted a roundtable conference on domestic and family violence on Friday 28 March 2025, bringing together the Lower North Shore councils of North Sydney, Mosman, Lane Cove and Willoughby; government and non-government agencies; and community leaders, to develop collaborative strategies to address domestic and family violence in our region. The roundtable brought together key stakeholders to share insights, discuss challenges, and develop collaborative strategies to address this pressing issue.
Historically, our work in this space has included:
- support for and collaboration with local domestic and family violence service Mary's House
- support for the Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Network, which brings together workers and practitioners to reduce the incidence and impact of domestic violence within the Lower North Shore
- participation in the Safe Village Project, which offers domestic violence awareness training for local businesses, in collaboration with the Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Network, Baptist Church, Crows Nest Centre, Relationships Australia NSW and others
We will continue to identify and put in place initiatives to improve community safety, for example lighting upgrades in public spaces.