Client in crisis supported

Noelene was a sole parent of one child and a victim-survivor of family violence residing in the City of Casey. The perpetrator, her former partner, refused to leave the property so Noelene sought advice and assistance from PCLC in relation to her rights.

Noelene was in crisis and had tried to obtain a Family Violence Intervention Order to exclude her former partner from the property, but had been discouraged to do so as there had not been any ‘physical’ violence.

The TAAP caseworker assisted Noelene to lodge an application to VCAT seeking Orders to terminate the existing lease (due to the family violence) and enter into a new agreement with the rental provider. VCAT heard the application within a few days and made Orders in favour of Noelene and her child, requiring the perpetrator to leave the premises and giving Noelene sole occupancy on a new agreement.