27 June 2025
You can now donate old mobile phones at any People First Bank branch to support victims of domestic violence.
People First Bank has partnered with DV Safe Phone, a charity that collects, refurbishes, and donates mobile phones to individuals escaping domestic violence. All People First Bank branches across Australia, including its Heritage Bank and People’s Choice Credit Union locations, now serve as phone collection points.
A charity partner of the People First Bank Foundation, DV Safe Phone plays a vital role supporting domestic violence (DV) victim’s ‘safety or escape plan’. The donated phones provide an invaluable link, allowing individuals to call for help and stay connected with services and loved ones.
People First Bank Foundation Executive Officer Paul Olds said the partnership is a simple, tangible way to join forces and make a real difference.
“We’re proud to stand alongside DV Safe Phone in providing tools that literally save lives,” Mr Olds said.
“Being able to help collect something as accessible as an old phone and have it turned into a lifeline - that’s incredibly powerful.”
Founded in 2020, DV Safe Phone has collected, refurbished, and distributed over 13,000 working mobile phones through a national network of more than 440 partner agencies, including police stations, hospitals, domestic violence shelters, and community organisations.
Founder and CEO of DV Safe Phone Ashton Wood, welcomed the initiative and praised the Bank’s commitment to community impact.
“Partnering with People First Bank enables us to reach more communities, faster,” Mr Wood said.
“Each branch added to our collection network means more phones, more lives changed, and more survivors connected to help when they need it most.”
Phones donated at any People First Bank branch will be sent directly to DV Safe Phone’s headquarters for secure data erasure, refurbishment, and distribution to someone in need.
“We believe in strong, safe, and supportive communities,” added Mr Olds.
“This partnership is not just about phones - it’s about hope, safety, and showing those impacted by DV that they are not alone.”
More information on the Foundation can be found at www.peoplefirstbankfoundation.org.au.