frequently asked questions
provider questions
Who can apply to be an accomodation provider?
Anyone with a good heart and a spare room can apply. Police checks and 100 points of ID are a mandatory requirement. Assuming you do not have a criminal record, you will also need to pass a basic induction test to make sure you understand our policies and procedures.
Why do I need a police check?
For security and safety reasons all Accommodation Providers must provide Police checks and 100 points of ID. The process is quick and simple. Follow the three steps at www.safehavencommunity.com.au/register-a-room/#policechecks
I already have a police check through my work
OK Great. We do need to see it though, we can’t just take your word for it! Ask your employer to send confirmation, or start a new police check and send your confirmation and 100 points of ID in an email so we can process your application. Follow three simple steps at www.safehavencommunity.com.au/register-a-room/#policechecks
Do I need a blue Card?
No, a Blue card is not a legal requirement for Safe Haven Community Accommodation Providers. We cannot place any children in your home unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children are to be supervised at all times and not left alone with Accommodation Providers.
Do I have to pay for their food?
No, not neccessarily. Guests should pay for their own food and beverages. You may like to arrange for shared cooking and grocery bills or organise a space in the fridge and pantry for separate items.
Do I have to be here all the time with my guests?
No, you are not their full time carer! You can go about your business as normal and so can your Guest. Just treat them the same way you would if it was your friend or relative that was staying with you.
What about insurance?
As you are not receiving income from providing accommodation to your Guest you are most likely already covered for any losses through your normal household insurance. You should check with your insurance company to make sure you fully understand your level of insurance cover. Safe Haven Community does not offer home and contents insurance to Accommodation Providers.
What happens if we don't get along?
Sometimes two people just aren't made fro each other. Safe Haven Community staff are available to help mediate or assist with any conflict resolution if necessary. If there is no way to make a relationship work then we can arrange for an early exit to the Accommodation Agreement and find a new Safe Haven for the Guest.
What happens if a Guest's abusive partner shows up?
During your induction training, you will be given full instructions around security breach protocols. The women we place in your home are victims of low level domestic abuse. However, In the unlikely event that your Guest’s abuser turns up at your doorstep, immediately lock all doors and windows and call the Police on 000 to request urgent assistance. Direct your Guest to a safe room in your home where a door can be locked or wedged shut with a chair. Let the person know that the police are on their way and will be there shortly. You can also call Safe Haven on 1800 042 836 to alert us to the security breach and we will assist you in any way we can to ensure your safety.
Is my information secure
Yes, your personal information is stored on a secure database. It is only accessible to authorised Safe Haven staff. No one else can see any information about you.
How do I apply for a Safe Haven room?
You can call us direct on 1800 042 836, or talk to one of our approved Referral Agencies about your needs. More information is available at www.safehavencommunity.com.au/find-a-room/#_selfreferrals
What can I take with me to my new temporary home?
We recommend you take with you only what you need for the duration of the stay. Your Accommodation Provider is happy for you to treat their place like it is your home, but that doesn’t include moving excessive amounts of personal belongings and all your furniture!
What do I do with all my furniture and other personal belongings
If you are leaving and need to take your furniture and a large quantity of other personal belongings with you then we suggest a using a professional storage facility nearby. We highly recommend Storage King. They cover most of Australia and can provide the first month at half price. Visit their website at www.storageking.com.au to find your nearest storage facility.
Can I bring my pets?
Yes, generally you can! We understand it is sometimes very difficult to leave a furry family member behind. If you need to bring your pets with you then we will endeavour to find an Accommodation Provider that accepts pets but can't guarantee this.
Why do I need to pay?
The accommodation is provided at no cost to you by our generous Accommodation Providers. Safe Haven Community charges a small daily amount to cover the additional services we provide. This included finding and maintaining relationships with Accommodation Providers Australia-wide to make sure there is always a safe place to stay, contract management, legal fees, insurance fees, administration, unlimited personal support, and referrals to other agencies as required.
Will anyone else know my location?
No. Absolutely not. We do not share your personal details or your location with anyone unless we have your permission to do so.
What happens if I find another place to stay?
No problem! We can arrange for an early termination of your Safe Haven Accommodation Agreement. There are no penalties for leaving early.
What happens if my abuser spots me at the shops and follows me?
As soon as you are aware that you are being followed or tracked go immediately to the nearest Police Station to request assistance and protection. Then call 18 000 HAVEN to alert our staff to the security breach. We will then advise you what to do next. If it is not safe to go to the provided accommodation we will make other arrangements for you as soon as possible.
What happens if we don't get along?
Sometimes two people just don’t get along. Safe Haven Community staff are available to help mediate or assist with any conflict resolution if necessary. If there is no way to make a relationship work then we can arrange for an early exit to the Accommodation Agreement and find a new Safe Haven for the Guest.
How do I know the accommodation provider is safe?
All of our providers are required to provide a Police check and 100 points of ID. We also speak to them a number of times on the phone or in person to get a good feel for them. Additionally, at the end of each stay, a Guest submits a feedback form to tell us if there were any concerns about a Provider that need to be addressed. Any provider that uses inappropriate behaviour is suspended or removed from our database.
guest questions
domestic violence affects people from all walks of life
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