When the world slowed down during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashton Wood’s life took a dramatic turn.

If you or someone you know have experienced domestic abuse or violence help is available on 1800 RESPECT. 1800 737 732.

Having spent years in corporate IT, Ashton was used to travelling frequently between Queensland, Melbourne, Sydney, and even Singapore. 

But when lockdowns began, he found himself with time—and purpose—he never expected.

“I decided I’d just clean up the house and take the things up the road to the local charity shop,” Ashton said. 

“We cleaned up the house, loaded up the car and I got lazy. I said, I can’t be bothered driving five minutes up the road today, I’ll do that in the morning.”

That evening, Queensland went into lockdown.

With a car full of donations and nowhere to take them, Ashton made a phone call that would change his life—and the lives of thousands of others.

One call that sparked a movement

Ashton reached out to Janine, a retired police senior sergeant he knew had worked in domestic violence. 

“I’ve got a car fully loaded, ready to go, but everything’s in lockdown. Where do I take it?” he asked. Her response surprised him.

“She said, ‘Ashton, what I need right now are mobile phones.’”

Ashton didn’t hesitate. “I’ve got two phones here in my drawer, they’re perfect,” he told her. “And she said, ‘Well, those phones could save a life.’”

That realisation hit Ashton hard. “I felt quite embarrassed,” he admitted. 

“She can have those. And I said, how many more do you want?”

When Janine told him he’d never be able to get enough phones, Ashton—true to his corporate problem-solving mindset—decided to prove her wrong.

More Than Just Old Phones

“I put it out just to my LinkedIn network,” Ashton explained. “But I needed to be clear. I said, ‘What countries are you sending these phones to?’ And she replied, ‘Ashton, I’m talking [2 million people] just in Australia.’”

That floored him. “You can’t be serious—2 million people in Australia?” he asked. “And she said, ‘Yes. And that’s just the reported figures.’”

And so DV Safe Phone was born—a grassroots initiative that’s grown into a national lifeline. 

In just five years, over 12,500 phones have been distributed to people escaping domestic violence.

The Power of a Safe Phone

Many victims have their phones monitored, tracked, or taken by perpetrators. A second, hidden phone can be the key to seeking help or planning an escape.

“If anyone needs a phone,” Ashton urged, “we know people listening might be perpetrators or victims. For victims, these phones are provided as safe phones.”

Through a growing network of over 400 police stations, hospitals, and domestic violence services across Australia, DV Safe Phone ensures that those who need help have a lifeline. A map on their website helps victims discreetly locate a nearby agency that can supply a phone and offer support.

Repair, Recycle, Restore

While Ashton’s original two phones worked fine, he quickly learned that many donated devices needed repair. “We’re replacing batteries in around 40 phones a day at the moment,” he said.

The initiative now employs two full-time technicians and relies on 18 volunteers to test and refurbish phones. Phones beyond repair—or old 3G models—are responsibly recycled through Mobile Muster, Australia’s leading mobile phone recycling program. Their certified processes ensure data is destroyed, protecting everyone involved.

A Community Effort with Eternal Impact

DV Safe Phone is powered by generosity—from individuals, corporate donors, and community groups. But the need is ongoing.

“We don’t sell any phones,” Ashton said. “It’s a really bad business model,” he laughed, “but we do it through people donating funds and us applying for grants to keep the place running.”

Every phone costs an average of $75 to process, and with over 100 phones sent out each week, support—both in devices and donations—is essential. 

The DV Safe Phone website features a live ticker showing donations of all sizes, a testimony to the widespread compassion fuelling the cause.

And if you’ve got an unused phone sitting in a drawer, chances are—it could save a life.

Faith in Action

Ashton’s story is a timely reminder of how God can use the ordinary for the extraordinary. A casual clean-up during lockdown became a ministry of practical care.

This is a poignant example of loving thy neighbour, one who may be secretly in dire need — something Jesus taught so clearly. Offering safety, dignity, and hope to those fleeing violence is Kingdom work in every sense.

If you’re with a church or community group looking to make a difference, DV Safe Phone provides accessible and meaningful ways to support vulnerable Australians.

How You Can Help

• Donate a Phone: Visit dvsafephone.org to find one of over 1,000 collection points nationwide.
• Give Financially: Your contribution helps cover repairs and supplies—making your gift part of a direct solution.
• Spread the Word: Share Ashton’s story in your church, workplace, or community group.
• If You Need Help: Click “Get Help” on the DV Safe Phone website to find safe, confidential support near you.

If you or someone you know have experienced domestic abuse or violence help is available on 1800 RESPECT. 1800 737 732.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva