We are funded by the State and Federal governments to provide support and accommodation for women and children experiencing domestic violence. We are not funded to work with men. For men wanting to change their abusive behaviour and save their family lives, we often refer them to Relationships Australia in Berri. Alternatively, the Department for Corrections in Berri offer a program twice a year.

The RDVS provides:

• Short-term emergency accommodation
• Domestic violence counselling for women not needing accommodation
• A confidential and professional service
• Information and referrals for legal, housing and medical assistance
• Community education
• Outreach services to the Riverland region
• Building support networks for those who need to relocate to another area
• “Phoenix Network” computers with web cams at Pinnaroo Hospital, Swan Reach Area School, Waikerie Community Centre, Renmark Paringa Community Centre and Loxcare. Talk to us via computer! Saves travel, time, resources.

The RDVS is only one agency in the State that provides services for women and children. Most agencies require employees to have a thorough understanding of domestic violence issues, are non judgemental, have strong feminist principles and beliefs and have some previous experience in the same or similar work. Most require applicants to have a Social Work Degree and or some previous work experience in the field.

If you are looking for a career in the domestic violence sector and do not have formal qualifications we recommend you start with studying the Community Services Certificate at TAFE before going on to study Social Work.

The RDVS is a non government agency. We receive funds under the National Affordable Housing Agreement.