Extra cash for DVConnect to help meet rising demand

The Palaszczuk Government will hand over more than $350,000 over 15 months to the DVConnect Womensline to ensure it keeps up with high demand.

The DVConnect Womensline is a telephone service for women caught up in domestic, family and sexual violence situations. It is a heavily utilised service, with 5,000 calls fielded each month.

Over the last year, the number of calls has risen by 10 per cent.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Di Farmer said it was important to invest in a service that is relied upon by many Queenslanders.

“This service offers around the clock support for women in crisis situations,” Ms Farmer said.

“It provides counselling, safety intervention and transport for women and their children in danger from a violent partner or family member.

“The Womensline also tees up safe accommodation for more than 600 women and their children each month.”

DVConnect’s Board Chair Shaan Ross-Smith said the funds would be put to good use.

“We’ll use this money to improve our business and digital services, so we can continue to meet the needs of people in dangerous situations,” Ms Ross-Smith said.

“Four extra jobs will be created over the next 12 months to help deliver the changes.”

Ms Farmer said the Palaszczuk Government was determined to put a dent in the issue.

“We have a vision for Queensland - that together we can make this state free from the grip of domestic and family violence,” Ms Farmer said.

“DVConnect Womensline is helping to make this goal a reality which is why the Palaszczuk Government is allocating more funds to the service.”  

Anyone who needs help can call DV Connect Womensline on 1800 811 811 or Mensline on 1800 600 636.

ENDS

Contact:  Ron Goodman  0427 781 920