Goldfields Women's Refuge in Kalgoorlie

11/3/97

The Goldfields Women's Refuge in Kalgoorlie has been guaranteed funding until mid-1998, Family and Children's Services Minister Rhonda Parker and Federal Family Services Minister Judi Moylan announced today.

This means the service can continue to provide crisis accommodation and support for up to five women and their children at a time who are escaping domestic violence.

Mrs Parker said funding for the service would increase from $207,056 a year to $210,556 a year until June 30, 1998 in recognition of the vital service it provided to local communities.

The Goldfields Women's Refuge is funded through the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP).

SAAP is a joint State and Commonwealth Government program which provides more than 100 accommodation and support services for homeless people throughout Western Australia.

Mrs Parker said providing and maintaining services to help victims of domestic violence was a priority.

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

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

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

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