Domestic Family Violence and Sexual Assault Service

Who we are

Domestic Family Violence and Sexual Assault Service (DFVSAS) is a free confidential counselling service. We are skilled social workers and psychologists, who help people who have experienced violence, abuse and neglect.

What we do

• Counselling and support for:
  • Adults who have experienced domestic and family violence, sexual assault, abuse or neglect
  • Children and young people (as well as their families and carers) who have experienced sexual abuse, and this has been confirmed by Department of Justice and Community (DCJ)
  • Children under 10 years where are concerns about their sexual behaviour, and this has been substantiated by DCJ/Joint Child Protection Response Program (JCPRP)  
• 24/7 crisis and medical service for a recent (within 5 days) sexual assault  
• Court support for people who have been sexually assaulted  
•  Assistance connecting clients with other services  
• Training and workforce development for ISLHD staff working with clients experiencing domestic and family violence, and sexual assault  
• Training, workforce development, strategic partnerships, and community engagement in implementing culturally competent initiatives addressing family violence in Aboriginal communities.

How to get help

Services are provided for people living in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven who have experienced domestic and family violence, sexual assault, abuse and neglect including:

• Adults who have experienced domestic and family violence, sexual assault, abuse or neglect.
• Children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse, and this has been confirmed by Department Justice and Community (DCJ).
• Children under 10 years where there are concerns about their sexual behaviour, and this has been substantiated by DCJ/JCPRP).

If you live in Illawarra or Shoalhaven referrals to the service can be made by yourself, or health care professionals, with your prior consent.

At your first appointment you should expect a discussion with a skilled counsellor, about how we can help you.

To refer please contact 1300 356 218. and a counsellor will contact you within 48 hours. If you are referring a client, please advise whether there are security issues, and any contact precautions to take.

If you think a child has been abused, call the Child Protection Helpline: 132 111

The client should bring identifying information and contact details.

Contact Information

Domestic Family Violence and Sexual Assault Services operate from community centres in Wollongong, Dapto, Warilla, Kiama, Nowra and Ulladulla, with outreach available to multiple locations.

Phone: Toll free 1300 356 218

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday

                         8.30am - 5.00pm

To access our 24/7 crisis sexual assault service call:

Illawarra: 02 4222 5000

Shoalhaven: 02 4421 3111