Can I come to the refuge if I live near the service?

Accommodating clients will be decided after a comprehensive risk assessment. Consideration is given to any potential threats to the client or the service and this may mean recommending the client moving out of the area.

Can I bring my pet into the refuge or transitional property?

Unfortunately, we are not able to take in pets, unless the dog is a registered therapy dog. We will, however, help to find an organisation who can take care of your pet while you are in our refuge or transitional property.

My son is 14, can we be accommodated in the refuge?

We are not able to accommodate boys over the age of 12 in our refuge. However, we will consider you and your teenage son in a transitional property should one become available.

Do I need to pay rent if I am accepted into the refuge?

Yes, we do charge a nominal weekly rent, in addition to this you will pay a refundable bond, a refundable key charge, and a non-refundable cleaning fee. However, inability to pay rent will not preclude you coming into our refuge, we will most certainly consider your circumstances.

Are there activities I can join in when I am in the refuge?

Yes, you can. We run several groups together with our Family Support Team. Some group work may be psycho-educational, while other groups are more about clients coming together to learn new skills, such as cooking. We also have fun school holiday activities for children.

Do you offer parenting programs and is there a cost attached to attend?

We offer a range of programs. Please see the events calendar for program and workshop details. There is no charge for programs and some programs include free childcare on-site.

What geographical area do you cover and what if we are out of area?

We work with families from the Northern Beaches and North Sydney council areas. In some cases, we can take out-of-area clients. Please call 02 9971 4499 to chat to a Family Support Worker.

Can you offer parenting support to Dads as well?

We work with dads and couples. Please call a team member to discuss your individual needs.

Do you see teenagers at your service?

We are unable to see teenagers, however, we can refer to great services in our area. Please call to discuss your needs.

Do you do home visits?

We offer home visits as part of case management.

Are you open at weekends?

Family Support hours are 9am-4.30pm weekdays (closed public holidays). If you need immediate assistance, please call Parent Helpline on 1300 1300 52 up to 9pm, 7 days.

Do you take second hand clothes/baby carriers/furniture?

From time to time we need different items depending on client’s needs. Please check here for our requested donations this month.

Do you accept household furniture and white goods?

We have no storage facilities for large donations, and we can only accept these items if there is an immediate need. Only items that are in near new condition can be accepted. Please check here for our requested donations this month. If you have suitable items, please call 02 9971 4499 to discuss.

Can I donate my outgrown children’s clothes?

We accept donations for children’s clothes sizes 3 to 12 in near new condition. Please call 02 9971 4499 to discuss.

I’d like to volunteer my time but can’t commit to anything regular. Do you have anything suitable?

We have all sorts of volunteering opportunities including working bees, gift wrapping and events help. Please send your details to admin@wacf.org.au to be included in our volunteer database and receive regular updates.