Peter Gallagher, chief executive officer of Orana Services Inc, the organisation who runs the Dubbo Emergency Accommodation Project and Sturt House said he had been helping with the inquiry.

"We have met with FACS [Department of Family and Community Services] and will be assisting them with their investigations," he said.

"We are very open and transparent."

Investigations began after allegations of a mother locking her and her three-year-old daughter in her room as a result of the behaviour of a drug addicted resident.

The Department of Family and Community Services (FACS) were informed by a media outlet of the incident and they began their investigations yesterday, said FACS Western District director Jo Lawrence.

"Neither Family and Community Services nor Orana Support Service received any complaint of the nature that has been reported in the media, either by individuals at the refuge or other organisations," she said.

"After the allegation was raised by a media outlet, the department proactively started an investigation into the claims, with the full co-operation of Orana Support Service.

"The investigation by a senior FACS officer is expected to be finalised by next week.

"It would be premature to comment on the investigation before it is concluded."

Mr Gallagher said he was "very surprised to hear of the investigation," as the "client felt intimidated, but there were no altercations or threats made."

"The issue raised involved a client that was fleeing from domestic violence," he said.

"The other client was fleeing from domestic violence and was feeling stressed and anxious and got a little loud.

"The woman wanted a little peace and quiet from the privacy of her room, which she is entitled to do."

Numerous families living under the same roof will not always live harmoniously, according to Mr Gallagher.

"The systems we have in place provide a safe environment for clients and staff," he said.

"There are four or five families from different cultures sharing a kitchen and bathroom, people don't always get along.

"We are providing a safe environment for women and children fleeing from domestic violence."