Government extends emergency accommodation in the South-West

21/8/03
The State Government has provided additional funds to support emergency accommodation for people experiencing domestic violence or homelessness in the Warren Blackwood region.
South-West Minister Bob Kucera said the Warren Blackwood Emergency Accommodation Centre in Manjimup would receive a further $54,450 through the South West Development Commission, to continue support services for families and others in need.
Mr Kucera said the funds were part of a $1million allocation provided from the Timber Industry Restructure Package to ensure social assistance and support was provided to the community during the time of industry and community transition.
"It's part of the Gallop Government's commitment to delivering a fair deal to those people affected by the timber industry restructure," he said.
"This funding will ensure the service stays operational until at least July 2004, maintaining an important community service for those with a gap in their accommodation needs."
The Minister said the service would be expected to access alternate sources of funding post July next year.
Since it opened, the centre has helped over 150 people with accommodation, counselling and support services.
People using the service have stayed in accommodation for an average of 13 days. More than 60 per cent of those stayed because of family issues and domestic violence. The remainder were homeless due to reasons beyond their control.
The South West Development Commission chairman, Carol Devitt, said over the life of the project, the Commission had provided $210,000 to set up and operate the service.
Mrs Devitt said in addition, other organisations, including the Shire of Manjimup, SGIO, Sons of Gwalia, Manjimup Chamber of Commerce, the Country Women's Association, SOTICO, Coles, Woolworth's, the Volunteer Centre and the Christian Centre, had provided financial and in-kind donations.
"It is wonderful to see the whole community move to support a service like this. These organisations are to be commended for their contributions," she said.
"I encourage others to come forward and help the centre continue to provide its services."
Minister's office: 9213 7000