DV Safe Phone, a national Australian charity, has secured $80,000 in its latest funding round. The organisation provides repurposed mobile phones as critical lifelines for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence (DFV). Founded in 2020 by Ashton Wood, the charity addresses the issue of phone confiscation or monitoring by abusers, which often isolates victims and prevents them from seeking help.
The charity operates by collecting donated mobile devices, which are then meticulously tested, data-wiped, and equipped with new chargers and SIM cards. These "safe phones" are subsequently distributed through a trusted network of over 500 frontline agencies across Australia, including police, shelters, hospitals, and specialised domestic violence services. DV Safe Phone has also established over 1,200 public collection boxes nationwide for easy phone donations and partners with businesses and recyclers to ensure non-reusable devices are recycled responsibly, promoting environmental sustainability.
This funding round is significant as DV Safe Phone continues to respond to increasing demand for its services. To date, the charity has distributed over 15,000 safe phones, with demand continuing to rise as awareness spreads and technology-facilitated abuse becomes more prevalent. The $80,000 in capital will be strategically used to scale the charity's operations, enhance its collection and distribution infrastructure, and expand its outreach efforts to assist more victim-survivors across Australia.
The secured investment underscores the ongoing need for support in combating domestic violence through practical, life-saving solutions. DV Safe Phone is committed to ensuring that every domestic violence victim who needs a phone can access one, thereby restoring connections and providing a crucial step towards safety and independence. The organisation plans to leverage this funding to facilitate further growth and broaden its impact nationwide.
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