Kinetic launches national partnership with DV Safe Phone to support victims of domestic violence

Australia’s leading bus operator Kinetic has today announced a national partnership with DV Safe Phone to help connect domestic violence victims across the country with safe mobile phones.

Through its vital work, DV Safe Phone collects, repurposes and gifts old mobile phones to domestic violence victims who have had their devices monitored, damaged, or destroyed by perpetrators.

For many, a safe phone is the only way to call Triple Zero, contact a case worker and loved ones, or activate a safety plan.

To date, the charity has supported over 16,000 lives across Australia, with demand continuing to surge as frontline agencies report increased complexity and severity in DV cases.

Following successful local drives at Kinetic’s Sunshine Coast and Molendinar depots in Queensland, the new partnership will now expand nationally, with Kinetic depots across Australia contributing to DV Safe Phone’s life-changing efforts.

The timing of this partnership is critical, as Australia heads into the highest-risk period of the year for domestic and family violence.

Research and frontline agencies consistently report spikes in police callouts during the summer holiday period, with financial pressures, holidays, and increased alcohol consumption creating a dangerous environment for many victims. New South Wales reporting alone shows that Christmas Day and Boxing Day have historically seen 78 per cent more domestic violence related assaults than on the average day.

With 1 in 4 Australian women and 1 in 14 men experiencing domestic violence in their lifetime, the need for safe, discreet communication has never been greater.

The partnership will raise awareness of critical domestic violence support initiatives across Kinetic’s 1,200-strong urban bus network, reaching millions of passengers across Australia.

Additionally, Kinetic will supply old corporate devices and unclaimed lost property phones exclusively to DV Safe Phone for repurposing – ensuring devices that would otherwise be discarded can serve as lifelines for those in danger.

DV Safe Phone CEO and Founder Ashton Wood said Christmas should be a time of connection and comfort, but for thousands of Australians living with domestic or family violence, it is one of the most dangerous and isolating times of the year.

“We hear daily from frontline workers that victims are being tracked, monitored, or left without a working phone after violence,” said Mr Wood.

“Through this partnership with Kinetic, thousands more Australians will have access to a safe phone exactly when they need it most – during a season where being able to safely call for help could change, or even save, a life.

“We are incredibly grateful for their leadership and commitment to community safety."

Kinetic Managing Director (Australia) Matthew Campbell said the partnership reflects Kinetic’s deep commitment to community safety.

“Public transport is often the only safe and accessible way for domestic violence victims to escape dangerous situations,” he said.

“Unlike rideshare services that require credit cards or apps that can be monitored by perpetrators, our buses provide an anonymous, affordable lifeline to safety.

“We have seen firsthand how vital our network is for people seeking help, and through this partnership with DV Safe Phone, we’re reinforcing our commitment to being there when it matters most.

"It is a privilege to be able to play a meaningful role in making sure every call for help is heard."

DV Safe Phone is currently running its 16 Days of Activism Challenge. Find out more about how you can pledge your support here: https://dvsafephone.org/16days.