Safe Exit Checklist

Safety planning when leaving an abusive partner

It takes strength and courage to leave a relationship where you haven’t felt safe or in control. You deserve safety, support, and respect.

This checklist can help you plan what to take with you if you need to leave quickly. Start small — even gathering one or two items is a strong first step. Then you have a packed safe exit kit (or bag) all ready to go.

If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, you can reach out for support. You don’t have to do this alone.

Important documents

• Driver’s licence or photo ID
• Medicare card and Centrelink card
• Pension or Healthcare card
• Birth certificates (for you and children)
• Passports (for you and children)
• Immunisation records (for children)
• Immigration or visa documents
• Proof of address (e.g. utility bill or rates notice)
• Bank cards or account numbers
• Important phone numbers written down
• Marriage, divorce, or custody papers
• Restraining or protection orders
• Lease agreement or mortgage papers
• Medical records
• School records
• Will or Power of Attorney
• Tax or income statements
• Car registration or insurance documents

✍️ Tip: Take clear photos of documents and store them in a secure app or folder on your phone (not the general photo gallery).

Emergency contacts list (in case your phone is lost, damaged, or not safe to use)

Write down phone numbers and names you may need in a crisis. Keep this list in your Safe Exit Kit or with your important documents.

• Local police or emergency number
• DVassist: 1800 080 083
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
• Aboriginal family violence support service
• Trusted friend, family member or neighbour
• Crisis accommodation or refuge
• Child’s school or daycare
• Doctor or health clinic
• Lawyer or legal service
• Centrelink or social worker
• Local Elder, Aunty, or community support person

✍️ Tip: Write these in a small notebook, on an index card, or even inside a child’s book or personal item if safety is a concern.

Money and valuables

• Cash
• Credit/debit cards in your name
• Jewellery or items of cultural or sentimental value
• Copies of bank statements
• Share certificates or title deeds (if applicable)

Personal and family essentials

• Keys (house, car, storage)
• Medication and prescriptions
• Spare mobile phone and charger (with prepaid SIM)
• Change of clothes (for you and children)
• Nappies, baby bottles, formula
• Toiletries (toothbrush, soap, deodorant, pads, etc.)
• Favourite toy or comfort item for each child
• A recent photo of the person using violence (for identification)
• Diary or notes documenting abuse (if safe to take)

Connection and cultural items

• Small cultural or spiritual item (e.g., photo, healing item, grounding object)
• Favourite toy or comfort item for each child

Where to keep your kit

You can store your Safe Exit Kit:

• With a trusted friend, family member or neighbour
• In a hidden location in your home or car:
  • Bottom of a laundry basket
  • Boot of your car (under the spare tyre)
  • Shed or roof space

Important reminders

• Only gather and store items when it is safe to do so.
• Never put yourself at risk to retrieve belongings.
• Police can escort you back later to collect your property.

You are not alone

No matter where you live, support is available.

DVassist provides free, confidential counselling and support for women in regional, rural, and remote WA.