Funding - Wonthella House Women's Refuge in Geraldton

24/3/97

Wonthella House Women's Refuge in Geraldton received a boost today with the announcement of an increase in funding.

Family and Children's Services Minister Rhonda Parker and Federal Family Services Minister Judi Moylan announced that funding would rise from $192,362 a year to $200,000 a year until June 30, 1998.

The increase reflected the important work of the service in providing crisis and transitional accommodation and support for up to six women and their children at a time who were escaping domestic violence.

The funding is provided through the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP), a joint State and Commonwealth Government program, which provides more than 100 accommodation and support services for homeless people throughout Western Australia.

"It is vital that women and children fleeing domestic violence have access to safe accommodation and services which support them in a crisis," Mrs Parker said.

"It is also important to help them after the crisis to re-establish their lives and care for their children.

"The service helps women who are affected by domestic violence assess their situation and make informed choices and decisions about the future."

Mrs Moylan said the refuge provided a valuable service for women in the Geraldton area.

"It is important that women and children in a violent family situation are able to develop skills and knowledge that will help them break the cycle of domestic violence," she said.

"The continued funding demonstrates the Commonwealth and State Governments' commitment to strengthening families and providing support for victims of domestic violence in WA."

Media contact: Kaye Hopkins (09) 481 7810 or Sandi Logan (06) 277 7240