Published Monday, 22 September, 2008 at 07:51 PM
Minister for Communities, Disability Services, ATSIP, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr
Rockhampton women have on-going refuge from violence with new government funding
Women and children escaping domestic and family violence in Rockhampton will continue to have a roof over their heads and access to critical support services thanks to an increase in government funding announced today.
During a visit to Central Queensland today, Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr announced the Rockhampton Women’s Shelter would receive more than $1.15 million over the next three years.
“The Rockhampton Women’s Shelter provides a safe and supportive haven for women and children who have been subject to violence and abuse in their homes,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
“And it’s a vital service - victims who are trapped in this situation can often feel enormously isolated but there is no need to suffer alone because help is available.
“This is the only crisis accommodation service for women and children in Rockhampton and I’m proud that the government can support it.
“For the past 30 years, the shelter has provided a comprehensive support service, including court support, confidential crisis counselling, referrals, advocacy and programs and outings for children.
“The shelter can accommodate up to 11 families at one time through its eight units and three houses located in the community.”
The Communities Department will provide the service with more than $386,000 each year over the next three years.
Ms Nelson-Carr said providing a safe haven for women and children escaping violence and abuse in their own homes was a high priority for the Bligh Government.
“Sadly, the latest Supported Accommodation Assistance Program Annual Report, released in July, revealed that domestic violence remains a leading cause of homelessness in Queensland.
“It shows one in seven Queenslanders seeking assistance for homelessness were doing so to escape violence in their homes and that’s why on-going government support is crucial.”
Ms Nelson-Carr urged anyone experiencing domestic violence to call the DV Connect helpline on 1800 811 811 or their local police station for advice and support.
For more information on how the Department of Communities is delivering innovative community services to support and strengthen individuals, families, or communities; visit: www.communities.qld.gov.au
Media Contact: Chris Taylor 3235 4280
During a visit to Central Queensland today, Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr announced the Rockhampton Women’s Shelter would receive more than $1.15 million over the next three years.
“The Rockhampton Women’s Shelter provides a safe and supportive haven for women and children who have been subject to violence and abuse in their homes,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
“And it’s a vital service - victims who are trapped in this situation can often feel enormously isolated but there is no need to suffer alone because help is available.
“This is the only crisis accommodation service for women and children in Rockhampton and I’m proud that the government can support it.
“For the past 30 years, the shelter has provided a comprehensive support service, including court support, confidential crisis counselling, referrals, advocacy and programs and outings for children.
“The shelter can accommodate up to 11 families at one time through its eight units and three houses located in the community.”
The Communities Department will provide the service with more than $386,000 each year over the next three years.
Ms Nelson-Carr said providing a safe haven for women and children escaping violence and abuse in their own homes was a high priority for the Bligh Government.
“Sadly, the latest Supported Accommodation Assistance Program Annual Report, released in July, revealed that domestic violence remains a leading cause of homelessness in Queensland.
“It shows one in seven Queenslanders seeking assistance for homelessness were doing so to escape violence in their homes and that’s why on-going government support is crucial.”
Ms Nelson-Carr urged anyone experiencing domestic violence to call the DV Connect helpline on 1800 811 811 or their local police station for advice and support.
For more information on how the Department of Communities is delivering innovative community services to support and strengthen individuals, families, or communities; visit: www.communities.qld.gov.au
Media Contact: Chris Taylor 3235 4280