The MetLife Foundation has awarded a Community Impact Grant Program (CIGP) grant to DV Safe Phone, marking the first time an Australian organisation has received support under the initiative.
The funding will enable DV Safe Phone to distribute 970 refurbished mobile phones to survivors of domestic violence through its network of support agencies.
DV Safe Phone collaborates with more than 360 organisations, including domestic violence services, law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and safe houses, to provide mobile phones to survivors. Since 2020, the organisation has repurposed over 10,000 devices, giving survivors access to essential services and the means to connect with support networks.
In Australia, approximately 2.2 million adults have experienced violence from a partner, and one in six women reports experiencing physical, sexual, or economic abuse.
Ashton Wood, founder and CEO of DV Safe Phone, highlighted the importance of the grant in addressing this need.
“We’re thrilled that the grant from MetLife Foundation will expand the number of people we can help,” he said. “Having a reliable, secure phone is a critical piece of the puzzle for those re-establishing their lives following domestic violence.”
The partnership with MetLife Australia extends beyond financial support. The company will engage its employees in volunteer efforts, provide education on domestic violence, and donate pre-owned phones for refurbishment and redistribution.
Launched in 2023, the CIGP program focuses on community-based initiatives addressing hunger, health, environmental issues, and quality of life. To date, it has distributed $2.6 million across 16 US cities and six Asia-Pacific countries, including Australia.
Tia Hodges, president and CEO of MetLife Foundation, said the grant program is designed to strengthen community partnerships and involve employees in selecting and supporting grassroots projects.
“The success of the program has allowed us to grow the impact of the foundation’s ongoing grantmaking and impact investments,” she said.
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MetLife Foundation’s partnership comes as the Australian insurance industry grapples with a steady increase in claims linked to domestic and family violence.
Allianz Australia recently reported a 70% increase in the support provided to customers affected by domestic violence over the past four years. A 31% rise was recorded in the past year alone, highlighting growing demand for insurer-led support services.
Most claims related to family violence involve motor insurance, accounting for 60% of cases, while property policies, including claims for total property loss, make up 40%.
The holiday season, a period often associated with heightened family violence incidents, is expected to further escalate the need for assistance.
In a previous statement, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) reaffirmed its commitment to tackling financial abuse and supporting customers affected by domestic and family violence.
According to an ICA spokesperson, these efforts are guided by the General Insurance Code of Practice, which includes measures to enhance customer safety and financial security.
