Funding for Onslow's Mingka Yurlu Safe House for women

24/10/96

Onslow's Mingka Yurlu Safe House for women escaping domestic violence has been guaranteed funding until mid-1998, Family and Children's Services Minister Cheryl Edwardes and Federal Family Services Minister Judi Moylan announced today.

This means the service can continue to provide safe crisis accommodation and support for up to seven women at a time, with or without children, who are escaping a violent domestic situation.

Family and Children's Services has granted the service $109,567 a year until June 30, 1998, under the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP).

SAAP is funded by both the State and Commonwealth Governments to provide accommodation and support for homeless people in Western Australia. There are currently more than 100 SAAP services available in metropolitan, rural and remote areas throughout the State.

"The service provides a safe, secure setting where women fleeing domestic violence can obtain information and support in a time of crisis," Mrs Edwardes said.

"Women can obtain information about various services and options, work through their crisis and make informed choices about the future."

Mrs Moylan said the Mingka Yurlu Safe House provided valuable emotional support for women in crisis as well as resource information and basic counselling.

"The safe, informal atmosphere and the information available at the centre allow women to make informed decisions about their lives and break the cycle of domestic violence," she said.

"The funding demonstrates the Commonwealth and State Governments' commitment to strengthening families and providing support for women affected by domestic violence."

Media contacts: Diana Russell Coote (Minister Edwardes' Office) 421 7777 Martine Haley (Minister Moylan's Office) 06 277 7240