Funding to help keep Coen children safe

Coen families who shelter children escaping domestic or family violence this Christmas will have their costs met through funding announced by the Queensland Government.

Acting Communities Minister Kerry Shine and Member for Cook Jason O'Brien said almost $10,000 would be made available to families to cover essential items such as food, bedding and clothing for the children.

“Coen has a high level of domestic violence and a real need exists for more support services,” Mr Shine said.

“Children are most vulnerable to this type of violence and a lack of support can have negative impacts on them.

“While we continue to work on providing a permanent shelter, this new funding will help tide children over during the Christmas holiday period, when the incidence of violence may increase.”

Mr O'Brien said the funding has been allocated to the Coen Kindergarten Association, which operates a family resource centre and child care hub that supports people affected by domestic and family violence.

“Community organisations such as the Coen Kindergarten Association are best placed to find local solutions to local problems,” Mr O'Brien said.

“I applaud their involvement, which supports the Queensland Government’s vision of safe, valued and empowered communities.”

A permanent shelter for Coen is planned as part of the $18 million Family Violence Partnership Program, a joint initiative between the Commonwealth and Queensland governments.

Four Indigenous communities are the first communities being assisted under the program – Palm Island, Mornington Island, Cherbourg and Coen.

Media contacts: Joe Begley (for Minister Shine) 3235 4280