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 mobile phones 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 during opening hours. 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 initiative in the North Sydney area on 25 November coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and marked the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign to end violence in all its forms, which runs 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.
You can register here.
For more information about DV Safe Phone and preparing your phone to donate, visit dvsafephone.org.
If you need support, contact the NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 656 463) or 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) both 24-hour helplines. Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
