Innovative accommodation service helps men in crisis

14/8/02
A new men's emergency accommodation service valued at over $1million will be under way shortly, Community Development Minister Sheila McHale announced today.
Communicare Incorporated has been funded $350,000 each year for three years to provide emergency accommodation primarily for men who have recently been involved in family violence.
"This new service will provide accommodation for a couple of nights or up to three months for men who are homeless or at risk of being homeless," Ms McHale said.
"The service will also provide counselling, relationship skills and methods for discovering and dealing with triggers that lead to violence."
Importantly, this innovative service will provide an option for men to move to crisis accommodation rather than family members leaving the home.
"In many cases women and children must move to a refuge to escape family violence," the Minister said.
"This service will enable women and children to stay in the family home, while men without financial resources or other supports in their families or communities are provided with emergency support.
"Men will also be provided with support and planning services to help them move to more stable, long-term accommodation and reduce the likelihood of future homelessness.
"They may also return to the family home but only after extensive planning and support to ensure the safety of family members."
The service will be based in Calista and will provide accommodation assistance to the entire metropolitan area.
Minister's office: 9213 6900