Those fleeing situations of family violence are often burdened with a great number of considerations; Council’s new support program aims to help carry the load by temporarily caring for their beloved pets.
The new Family Violence and Domestic Pets Assistance Program offers to house the domestic pets of victims leaving a situation of family violence for up to 14 days to give them the space and time to secure safe, longer term accommodation.
City of Casey’s Local Laws Officers do encounter family violence while out in our community and note that often, animal abuse can occur before or side-by-side with family violence and so this program offers an opportunity for all victims – human and animal – of family violence to find a more secure situation.
Pet owners wishing to access this service can do so by requesting their support agency contact the City of Casey on 9705 5200 to request an admittance form.
If you are experiencing family violence or are concerned for another person’s safety, there are a number of support agencies who are available to help:
• 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732 – 24-hour family violence and sexual assault help
• WAYSS: 9791 6111. After hours 1800 627 727 – Provides housing help
• SECASA: 9928 8741 – Sexual assault and family violence help
• Safe Steps: 1800 015 188 – 24-hour family violence help
• Ask Someone: Support in south-east Melbourne
• Mensline: 1300 789 978 – Supports men and boys who are dealing with family and relationship difficulties
• With Respect: 1800 542 847 – LGBTQI service
• Djirra: 1800 105 303 – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Service
Council also provide ongoing support to those experiencing family violence through initiatives identified in it’s Family Violence Prevention Strategy 2018-2021 and Gender Equality Action Plan 2018-2021. For more information about family violence and Council's support for victims of it, please visit Council’s website.