24/9/03
More than 70 per cent of female homicides in Western Australia are linked to family and domestic violence, according to Community Development Minister Sheila McHale.
"This disturbing figure, combined with the fact that almost one in four women face the threat of violence in the home, cannot be ignored," Ms McHale said.
From today, women and children wanting to break free from the frightening cycle of domestic violence can access several vital services at one central-city location.
"Domestic Violence Advocacy Support Central (DVAS Central) is a one-stop shop where women and children can access a range of resources designed to stop domestic violence," Ms McHale said.
DVAS Central provides women with legal support and help with violence restraining orders, counselling, referrals and assistance with exploring options for housing, finances and support for their children.
"At a time when women and children may be feeling particularly vulnerable, DVAS Central provides services which will protect and empower them," Ms McHale said.
She was joined at DVAS Central's launch by domestic violence survivor and Telstra Business Woman of the Year category winner Anna Chandler.
Services at DVAS Central will be provided by the Department for Community Development, Orana Women's Refuge, Western Australian Police Service, Legal Aid's Domestic Violence Legal Unit, Yorgum Aboriginal Corporation, Women's Multicultural Advocacy Service and the Department of Justice's Victim Support Service with links to the Central Law Courts.
The service is supported by Regional Domestic Violence Committees and the Women's Refuge Group of WA.
Ms McHale described domestic violence as the community's 'hidden shame'.
Last year almost 5,000 violence restraining orders were taken out by WA women - about half of these restraining orders involved children.
More than 6,000 adults and 3,500 children were involved in domestic violence calls made to police in the Joondalup, Midland and Cannington districts in 2000-01.
"These figures come from just three districts in metropolitan Perth - the enormity of the problem in WA is plain to see," the Minister said.
"DVAS Central is part of the Gallop Government's commitment to build a safer, stronger community."
The Government provides more than $18million each year to 93 services tackling family and domestic violence across the State.
The new service is partly funded by the confiscated proceeds of crime.
DVAS Central, located at Carillon Tower (part of the Carillon Arcade) can be contacted on (08) 9226 2370.
Minister's office: 9213 6900
