Women being turned away from refuges amid domestic violence 'crisis'

Refuges in rural towns across Australia are struggling to support the number of women turning up at their doors fleeing violent relationships.

The US Supreme Court decision has been welcomed by domestic violence groups. Source: Getty Images

Anna* fled an abusive relationship just four weeks ago.

Both her life and the life of her young daughter were under threat, she said.

"I was going through hell.

"My daughter was going through hell. We were both unhappy, and my daughter was scared. So that was enough for me."

Living in a small community where it was easy for her abuser to find her, Anna found it difficult to leave, but she was able to get a bed at the local refuge.

"I just couldn't hand it anymore. I had to put my hand up and ask for help."

But not everyone trapped in a violent relationship in regional Australia is quite as lucky when it comes to finding a place to stay.

The Tamworth Family Support Service is the only crisis accommodation provider for more than 100 kilometres in north east NSW.

Tamworth Family Support Service General Manager Belinda Kotris said they can only house five families at their refuge.

"The turn away rate at the refuge would possibly be a couple of times a week when it is full and it can remain full for some time."

In a trend that's being reflected across the country, the ten areas in New South Wales with the highest levels of domestic violence-related assaults are all in rural regions.

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said extra funding targeted at combating domestic violence in rural communities is not needed.

"I don't want it to be seen that out in the country everyone beats up their wives. I think there's a program against domestic violence, I think it might be more prominent because it's more easily seen."

But Ms Kotris says victims are often more hidden in rural communities.

"Unfortunately we see it far too often where the victims are isolated by moving into really small communities and often they don't come to the attention of any services."

The importance of safety in smaller communities is something Anna understands all too well.

"Out here in these small towns, we need these services, possibly even more because it's a small town and everyone knows everyone.

"I'm just trying to live a normal life and go back to a safe home. Somewhere for my daughter to settle down, knowing we're safe."

* Not her real name.