FAQs

Domestic and family violence

Domestic and family violence in Australia has reached epidemic levels. Anyone who has any doubts about this…

Domestic and family violence

Domestic and family violence in Australia has reached epidemic levels. Anyone who has any doubts about this only has to read the report of the Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family Violence in Queensland, titled, NOT NOW, NOT EVER, Putting an End to Domestic and Family Violence in Queensland, released in February 2015.

The report highlights the enormity of the problem, which has only got worse since the report was published. For example, in 2023-2024, in Queensland alone, the Queensland Police Service responded to over 192,000 domestic violence incidents, more than 12% higher than the previous financial year.  Some of the victims are men but the great majority are women. Almost every week, we read about another woman dying in Australia as a result of violence inflicted by a partner or former partner.

Common questions

How does Zephyr Education help the kids?

We supply or pay for uniforms, stationery, swim packs and all of the other items the children will require at their new school. We also supply a laptop or an iPad if the school the child is attending requires families to provide their own device.

We also pay school resource fees, sports fees and camp fees so that children don’t miss out on these important activities.

Does Zephyr Education help fathers who are victims of domestic violence and family?

Yes. DFV shelters only provide refuge to women and their children. However, Zephyr’s clients include several organisations that also assist fathers and their children who are victims of domestic and family violence. We provide educational support to these children also.

How do I get help if I think I’m in danger from my partner?

If you are a victim of domestic and family violence or in fear that you may be harmed by your partner, ex-partner or family member, you can call the National domestic violence hotline on 1800 737 732.

You can also call:

  • Queensland - DV Connect’s Womensline on 1800 811 811
  • Tasmania - Family Violence Counselling and Support Service on 1800 608 122
  • Western Australia - Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline on 1800 007 339
  • NSW - Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63
  • Victoria - Family violence statewide support services on 1800 015 188
  • ACT - Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) on 02 62 800 900
  • SA – Domestic and family violence and sexual assault support services on 1800 800 098
What does Zephyr Education do that is different from other groups assisting domestic violence and family victims?

None of the shelters and other organisations we help is funded to supply the children they care for with urgently needed educational support in the way we do. Our focus is on responding rapidly to requests for support to ensure these children arrive at their new school in the right uniform and with the same stationery and equipment as their new classmates. This gives them the best chance of fitting in with their new classmates and successfully resuming their education.

In the great majority of cases, we respond to requests for help, and commence action within 48 hours.

How much of my donation will be used to pay for school items as opposed to administration costs?

Our charity is run entirely by volunteers and does not pay rent or power costs This means that almost every dollar donated to Zephyr Education is spent on the children’s educational needs.

When was Zephyr Education founded?

Zephyr Education was created in Queensland by its four founding members in 2013, originally under the name Zephyr Foundation. Its name changed to Zephyr Education Inc when it became an incorporated association in Queensland in 2016.

In June 2025, our charity became a Company Limited by Guarantee under the name Zephyr Education Limited and operates in every Australian State and Territory.

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How many children does Zephyr Education assist?

In the 2024-2025 financial year, we provided educational support exceeding $1,100,000 in value that included:

  • uniforms for 2,435 children
  • resource fees for 350 children.
  • 578 laptops and iPads
  • 2,499 school bags
  • 1,857 pairs of school shoes
  • 1,465 primary school stationery packs
  • 635 high school stationery packs and TAFE packs.
What will my donation provide?

Here are some of the things your donation may be spent on:

  • $50 Pair of shoes and socks
  • $150 School backpack containing stationery, lunch box and water bottle
  • $250 Primary school uniform including shoes and sports uniform
  • $450 High school uniform including shoes and sports uniform.
Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes. Zephyr Education has been endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office as a deductible gift recipient. This means that all donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. We will send you a tax receipt shortly after we receive your donation. We also have endorsement for charity tax concessions. If you would like to make a donation, click here.

Can I assist in any other way?

Zephyr Education has more than 50 volunteers who assist in various ways. The main ongoing need is financial support as the number of children we help increases every year. About half of our funding is provided by community grants and business partnerships. The remainder is provided by direct donations from members of the public.

If you can assist with fund-raising as an individual or through a group or club, please contact us for any information or support you may need.

Where does Zephyr Education operate?

Zephyr Education is based in Queensland but also provides support to children affected by DFV in every State and Territory.

Can my donation be spent in a State, Territory or Region I nominate?

Yes, you can request to have your donation spent in any Australian State, Territory or Region.

Can’t find an answer? Contact us for more!

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