By STAFF REPORTERS

Have you got an old, unused phone sitting in a drawer? It could become a lifeline, thanks to North Sydney Council’s new partnership with DV Safe Phone, a national program that collects and refurbishes old mobiles for people escaping domestic violence.

Three DV Safe Phone collection boxes have been installed at Stanton Library, the Coal Loader and Council’s Customer Service Centre, making it easy for residents to donate unused phones.

Every phone donated helps ensure that people escaping domestic violence can call for help when they need it most.

Mayor Zoë Baker said the initiative offers a practical way for the community to help:

“Perpetrators often take, break or monitor victims’ phones – so for many survivors, a second phone can be a lifeline. It means safety and a pathway to rebuilding independence.

“If you have an old phone sitting in a drawer at home, please consider donating it. That small act could make a world of difference to someone who really needs it.”

The launch of the North Sydney program coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign to end violence in all its forms, which runs from today until 10 December.

This initiative is part of Council’s broader commitment to preventing domestic and family violence and supporting those affected. Council works closely with community organisations, including Link Wentworth and the Fathering Project, to strengthen prevention and recovery pathways.

As part of the 16 Days campaign, Council has partnered with The Fathering Project to deliver a webinar on respectful relationships for men, on Wednesday 4 December. The webinar will explore how men can foster healthy, respectful relationships and play an active role in ending gender-based violence. Register on the website HERE.

Council also supports housing solutions for women and families escaping domestic and family violence, recognising that safe and affordable housing is critical to recovery and independence.

Mayor Baker added:

“Violence has no place in our community. By working together – through awareness, education and practical initiatives like DV Safe Phone – we can help change lives, one phone at a time.”

Phone donations are accepted via the DV Safe Phone boxes during opening hours at Stanton Library, the Coal Loader and Council’s Customer Service Centre. For more information about DV Safe Phone and preparing your phone to donate, visit the website HERE.

If you need support, contact:

• The NSW Domestic Violence Line 1800 656 463 – a 24-hour helpline providing counselling and referrals for women experiencing domestic violence.
• 1800RESPECT 1800 737 732 – a 24-hour helpline offering confidential information, counselling and support for people (including men) affected by domestic, family or sexual violence.
• In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).