A Lifeline in a Bag: Escabags Brings Practical Hope to the Back Country

In Short

• Immediate Essentials: Escabags provides free, discreet "Escape Bags" (Adult and Parent/Child versions) containing toiletries, first aid, and a pre-paid SIM card for safe communication.
• Rural Accessibility: With over 2,000 stockists nationwide—including pharmacies and local shops—the charity aims to make help accessible even in remote back-country towns.
• Local Action: Community members can support the mission through tax-deductible donations, item drives, or by applying to become a local stockist.

In the close-knit country communities across rural Australia, the bush telegraph is usually a source of comfort - a way to know when a neighbour needs a hand.

But for those living in the shadow of domestic and family abuse, that same closeness can feel like a cage. In small towns where everyone knows everyone, the first step toward safety is often the hardest and most dangerous to take.

Enter Escabags, a registered Australian charity that understands that escaping abuse isn't just a monumental emotional hurdle; it’s a logistical one.

Bridging the Gap to Safety

Founded in 2020 by survivor Stacy Jane, Escabags provides free, discreet Escape Bags designed to support individuals and families in the critical early stages of seeking safety.

"I really don't know where I found the courage to leave," Stacy says of her own journey,

"But I think I realised that this was my last chance."

Her mission now is to ensure that no one else has to stand in that moment empty-handed.

Each bag is non-gendered and intentionally discreet, appearing as a regular tote to avoid raising suspicion. They are available in two versions: Single Adult and Parent & Child.

Inside, survivors find high-quality essentials that are often left behind in a rush:

• Practical Necessities: Toiletries and a mini first aid kit.
• A Digital Lifeline: A pre-paid SIM card, providing a safe way to contact support services without a perpetrator monitoring the device.
• For the Little Ones: The Parent & Child bags include items like nappies and comfort toys to soothe children during a traumatic transition.

A Growing Network

Since its launch, Escabags has built a national presence, boasting over 2,000 stockists across Australia.

For those living in rural or remote Australia, this network is vital. Stockists aren’t just crisis centres; they are everyday businesses—pharmacies, medical centers, and local shops—that have raised their hands to be kind spaces.

The charity’s goal is simple: to have an Escape Bag within reach in every suburb and town, ensuring that even in the most remote corners of the back country, a first step to freedom is never too far away.

How the Community Can Help

Escabags is a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) organisation, meaning any donation over $2 is tax-deductible.

While financial support is crucial for purchasing supplies, there are many ways for locals to get involved:

• Donate Items: High-quality, unopened toiletries and essentials.
• Volunteer: Join a packing day or help with logistics.
• Become a Stockist: Local business owners can apply to host the bags and display a discreet poster in their window, signaling to those in need that help is inside.

The Riverine Grazier in Hay has applied to be come a stockist of Escabags and will update BCB News on the outcome.

Seek Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, help is available 24/7. You do not have to navigate this alone.

1800RESPECT > Phone: 1800 737 732

Text: 0458 737 732

Online Chat: 1800respect.org.au

To find your nearest Escabags stockist or to learn how you can support their mission, visit escabags.org.