The Andrews Labor Government is providing $2 million in immediate funding to support agencies that provide housing assistance and counselling services to women and children who have experienced family violence.
The funding has been allocated so that $1 million is immediately available to offer crisis accommodation and transport for women and children, as well as additional support staff.
The statewide crisis service Safe Steps will receive $600,000, and the remaining $400,000 will be provided to family violence services for their crisis accommodation and private rental brokerage programs.
Organisations like Elizabeth Hofman House Aboriginal Women's service in North Region, Kara House in East Region, WAYSS Limited in the South Region and Emma's House Domestic Violence Services will benefit from this funding boost.
The $1 million for housing assistance will provide more than 4,400 nights of accommodation.
A further $1 million will be provided to agencies that offer family violence counselling services.
The new funds will be allocated according to need and provided across the state in metropolitan, regional and rural areas.
The funding comes from the $16 million Family Violence Fund that was established by the Labor Government to respond to increased demand for services as a result of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, Fiona Richardson
“Family violence is a national emergency and we know that there is increased demand for services.”
“We’re providing this funding boost immediately to ensure agencies can help women and children experiencing family violence.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing, Martin Foley
“We’re making sure every woman who makes the brave decision to seek safety from family violence has a place to stay.”
“Our Budget provides a boost to service providers to meet increased demand while the Royal Commission conducts its inquiry.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children, Jenny Mikakos
“This extra money means women and children experiencing family violence will receive the counselling services they need.”
“The evidence shows that timely and appropriate counselling can help women and children with the terrible effects of family violence.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020