Michelle Glasgow, of Illawarra Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (IWDVCAS), said there was an increase of 47 per cent in women between the ages of 16 and 24 referred to the service since 2019.

"The majority of our clients are referred to us by the police," she said.

"What's frightening about these numbers is it only captures the women who present to the police. It makes you wonder about the increase in women experiencing domestic violence and not reporting, because women don't report their early experiences of violence."

One young woman, who cannot be identified for safety reasons, said she had no idea help was available when at 18 she found herself trapped in an abusive relationship.

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"It was very intense from the beginning, we would spend every day together and after a few months we were living together," she said.

"I didn't think it was domestic violence, I thought we were just fighting and it was normal. I remember feeling so worthless, I just felt like nothing and I didn't think I had anywhere to go."

She left when her mental health had deteriorated to the point where she needed to check herself into hospital for her own safety.

Although she was no longer living with her partner, and had blocked him on social media, he continued to find ways to harass her.

"I was screaming and crying, I was just hysterical," she said.

"In the hospital I didn't have access to my phone, and that helped so much. It wasn't until the nurses spoke with me that I realised what I had experienced was domestic violence."

She said the pressures and restrictions of lockdown made it more difficult to leave, and to seek help.

She has since connected with the Illawarra Women's Health Centre and is making a new start.

"It broke me and I had to rebuild myself," she said.

"I can't imagine where I would be if we had lived together longer, or had a child. I have my peace back now. To anyone who is suffering, know that you can shine your light and break the cycle."

Sally Stevenson, CEO of the Illawarra Women's Health Centre, said more funds for specialist support is desperately needed.

"We require increased and sustained levels of funding for specialised young women's case workers to support victims," she said.

"We only have the funds for one youth worker three days a week, and she also provides outreach into schools during that time."

Ms Glasgow said another worrying trend through lockdown was the number of new clients the service saw.

"They didn't have access to their usual coping mechanisms, and the closure of schools, uni and sports made young people in volatile homes very vulnerable."

To cope with the increased workload after the first lockdown IWDVCAS was given funding for an additional staff member, Kelly Clifton.

Ms Clifton is a domestic violence youth support worker and helps young women to recognise the warning signs of a violent relationship. She also connects them with support services if they find themselves unsafe at home.

Her position was only funded until the end of this year; IWDVCAS has applied to the Department of Justice and Communities for the role to be extended, but will not have any certainty until December.

"If we don't get that funding there's nothing like it for young women in the Illawarra," Ms Glasgow said.

"I'm really concerned about the mental wellbeing of many in the community, and if services that offer support are reduced, where will they go?"

Ms Clifton said many young women did not recognise the early warning signs a partner may be abusive, and often felt isolated and ashamed. A friendly face and the right referrals can make all the difference.

"When they realise they're not alone and someone believes them, it's such a powerful moment," she said.

"To placate that feeling of helplessness in one of the best parts about my role."

If you need help, call NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63.

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