How DV Safe Phone is creating real change with old phones
Every day across Australia, hundreds of individuals face the terrifying reality of domestic violence (DV). In those critical moments, something as simple as access to a working mobile phone can be the key to safety and support.
That’s why it’s so important to highlight the incredible work of DV Safe Phone. This national initiative empowers survivors while giving communities a direct and practical way to help.
Since launching in 2020, DV Safe Phone supported more than 13,000 DV survivors, thanks to the generosity of everyday Australians and the efforts of agency partners nationwide.
But with demand on the rise, the organisation’s work has never been more important.
What is DV Safe Phone?
Founded in 2020, DV Safe Phone is a not-for-profit organisation tackling one of the hidden challenges of escaping domestic abuse: communication.
The charity collects old mobile phones, refurbishes them, and distributes them free of charge to DV victims through a network of more than 450 agency partners.
These include:
- Domestic violence support agencies
- Police stations
- Hospitals
- Safe houses and shelters
Every phone donated is tested, wiped, and fitted with a charger. If a device can’t be used, it’s responsibly recycled through MobileMuster.
To date, more than 37,500 phones have been donated across Australia.
Why this matters
Leaving a violent situation isn’t as simple as just walking out the door.
Often abusers control finances, isolate their victims, and monitor or confiscate phones. For many, having a safe, untraceable mobile phone is the first step to reclaiming their independence and accessing support.
This work saves lives, and offers hope, dignity, and essential access to help.
How businesses like Swoop are helping
One great example of a corporation jumping in to help comes from Swoop Broadband, a proud partner of DV Safe Phone.
During a recent multi-day campaign at Collins Square in Melbourne, the Swoop team made a powerful impact by:
- Setting up a dedicated mobile phone donation stand
- Collecting dozens of used devices
- Engaging directly with tenants and staff
- Raising awareness and encouraging continued community support
Staff from both the Melbourne and Warragul offices worked side by side. As well as collecting phones, they were passionately advocating for the DV Safe Phone mission.
DV Safe Phone founder Ashton Wood noted, “We’ve had fantastic feedback from tenants who’ve seen Swoop’s team in action. This kind of partnership makes real impact possible.”
Why this initiative matters more than ever
Australia continues to face a domestic violence crisis. The statistics are confronting. According to Our Watch:
- On average, one woman is killed every nine days by a current or former partner.
- In the year 2021/22, 4,620 women aged 15 years and over (average of 13 women a day) were hospitalised due to family and domestic violence.
- Intimate partner violence contributes to more death, disability and illness in women aged 25 to 44 than any other preventable risk factor.
- Many victims stay in dangerous situations because they lack access to resources, technology, and support.
We all have a role to play in turning these numbers around. And it can start with something as simple as the phone sitting in your drawer.
How you can help
You don’t need to run a business to make a difference. There are plenty of ways individuals, groups and companies can support DV Safe Phone:
- Donate your old phone. It could save a life (or at the very least get recycled properly).
- Fundraise. BBQs, morning teas, or community events all help raise vital funds.
- Become a regular giver. Even a small monthly donation supports repairs, logistics, and outreach.
- Partner with DV Safe Phone as an agency, drop-off point, or corporate sponsor.
Every contribution, big or small, keeps this essential service running.
Frequently asked questions
Do phones go directly to victims?
No. Phones are distributed through trusted agencies trained in domestic and family violence support.
Is my old phone secure to donate?
Absolutely. All phones are professionally wiped and reset to factory settings before being handed out.
What happens to phones that can’t be used?
They’re responsibly recycled for parts or materials through MobileMuster, ensuring zero waste.
Can I donate chargers or accessories?
Yes. These are helpful and very welcome.
Where do I drop off a phone?
There are more than 1,100 drop-off points across the country. Use the HALT Map on the DV Safe Phone website to find your nearest location.
DV Safe Phone is a powerful example of how collective action can drive real and lasting change.
Combining technology, sustainability, and compassion, the initiative empowers victims of domestic violence to make a fresh start.
Whether you’re a business seeking to support a meaningful cause or an individual wanting to make a tangible difference, DV Safe Phone offers a practical way to help.
To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit dvsafephone.org.
Key takeaways
- DV Safe Phone has been providing refurbished phones to domestic violence survivors since 2020.
- The initiative promotes safety and independence for victims by ensuring access to communication.
- Community support, like Swoop’s partnership, enhances awareness and encourages phone donations for victims.
Marshall Thurlow is Director and Founder of Orion Marketing Pty Ltd. He is a digital marketer with expertise in SEO, website design, content marketing, and project management.
