I *think* it's possible, depending on certain circumstances. I'm pretty sure it used to be impossible, but that the rules have changed over the past few years because let's face it, moving out (especially when kids are involved) is pretty expensive and not everyone has the available finances to just up and leave, kwim? Especially in cases of financial abuse/control by another spouse. Hopefully one of the other girls who knows their stuff can come in and help advise you My advice would definitely be to tell your friend to go into Centrelink if she can and ask them directly, I'm sure they would be able to help her according to her individual circumstances. Best of luck to her, a relationship breakdown is never easy.