Where a woman is in a crisis situation as a result of an assault on herself or her children her immediate need will probably be for shelter away from the attacker. This may be just for a night until the situation has eased or it may be for a longer period until other accommodation can be found. There are a number of shelters or refuges in South Australia for distressed and endangered women and their children. Most are open 24 hours a day. The shelter can assist and advise women on how to obtain information about their legal and welfare rights and assist them to take action in applying for social welfare benefits and to seek legal aid. A woman does not jeopardise her rights to a later property settlement or residence or maintenance application if she leaves the home in these circumstances.