Salvation Army's Byanda/Nunyara Women's Refuge

11/3/97

The Salvation Army's Byanda/ Nunyara women's refuge in Perth 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 safe crisis accommodation and support for up to eight lone women and 10 women with children at a time.

Family and Children's Services has granted the service $314,898 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 who are facing a crisis or fleeing domestic violence can obtain essential information and support," Mrs Parker said.

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

Mrs Moylan said the Byanda/Nunyara Safe House provided valuable emotional support as well as resource information and basic counselling.

"The safe, informal atmosphere and the information available at the centre allows women to make informed decisions about their lives and develop skills which may help avoid future crises," Mrs Moylan said.

"The funding demonstrates the Commonwealth and State Governments' commitment to strengthening the family and providing support to victims of domestic violence."

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