What is this service?
This free service provides specially trained support workers that can assist people affected by domestic, family and sexual violence, including child sexual abuse (current or historical).
Through your GP, Linkers can assist you with everything from making a safety plan, to providing support around seeking apprehended violence orders, housing, counselling, financial support and more. They can also provide referrals to behaviour change programs for individuals who use violence.
Linkers are available through all general practices across the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow and Penrith areas. They are also situated within several local general practices, making it easier for you or someone you care about access these services in a safe and supported place.
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Benefits
One of the main benefits of Care and Connect Linkers is that you can make a disclosure to your GP and access this support at your general practice.
Once a disclosure is made, your GP can contact the Linker for help and advice or refer you directly to the Linker. In some cases, Linkers are physically located within a general practice, ensuring timely, safe and discreet care.
Once referred by your GP, Linkers can provide support in a variety of ways.
They can help you with:
- advice and information
- counselling and support groups
- undertaking risk assessments and safety planning
- seeking Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs)
- seeking housing and/or financial support
- and more
Watch the video at the bottom of the page to learn more.
Eligibility
Anyone experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence, including child sexual abuse (current or historical) can access the service if they live or work in the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow or Penrith areas, and are referred by their GP.
Funding
This service is funded by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
Evaluation
In February 2026, the Interim Evaluation of the Supporting Primary Care Responses to Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Pilot undertaken by the Sax Institute was released. It provides a thorough evaluation of the program, which includes the Care and Connect Linkers component.
Referrals
A referral from a GP is required to access this service.
GPs can find referral details, including direct mobile numbers for Linkers, in HealthPathways under the Assault or Abuse Community Support Pathway.
Linkers are available Monday-Friday during office hours. For assistance outside of hours, call 1800RESPECT. If you’re in immediate danger, call 000.
Care and Connect Linkers
Select a relevant group:
For GPs
How Care and Connect Helps GPs
Care and Connect:
- advice and information relating to DFSV
- case consultations
- information on referral pathways
- assistance in uploading the GP DFSV Action Plan (GPs see HealthPathways for more information)
- integrating care and services
Last updated: May 22, 2026 at: 11:30 am