Queensland’s 54th Domestic and Family Violence shelter set to open

A domestic and family violence shelter in Far North Queensland was officially opened today in Coen, more than 250km north-west of Cooktown.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Di Farmer said the $380 000 project is key to the Palaszczuk Government’s continued commitment to the prevention of domestic and family violence.

“It is a brave decision women make when they leave a violent relationship and it is vitally important that we have services ready to help them when they do,” Mrs Farmer said.

“We are seeing the continued demand for safe accommodation and support for women and children at serious risk of violence.

“The new shelter will provide women and children with a safe place while we help them to secure longer term accommodation.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said that since the Palasczuk Government came to office, it has given top priority to women and children escaping domestic and family violence.

“We have built homes, we’ve expanded services, and we are delivering shelters like this one in communities across the state.

“I am particularly proud of the collaboration across four government agencies, our local MP Cynthia Lui, local building companies and the Cook Shire Council.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said these shelters are part of the Palaszczuk Government’s response to the Not Now, Not Ever report.

“Domestic and Family violence sadly occurs in every community and it is shelters like this one in Coen which makes a real difference to victims when they are looking for a safe place,” Ms Lui said.

“I know the community of Coen will welcome this investment as another step to addressing the scourge of domestic and family violence.”

Ministerial Champion for Coen, State Development Minister Cameron Dick said the new domestic and family violence shelter would provide a safe and secure place for people escaping domestic violence in their home.

“One of the barriers preventing people from seeking help is not having a safe place to go. Shelters such as this provide a secure haven for victims and help break the cycle of violence,” Mr Dick said.

Government Champion for Coen, QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll, officially opened the shelter today with Donna Rose Johnson, Deputy Chair, Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation.

The Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation had been contracted to run the shelter.

ENDS

Media contact: Ron Goodman 0427 781 920