First outreach info service for women in rural areas

The State's first outreach information service for women in rural communities was launched today in Geraldton by Minister for Women's Interests Judyth Watson.

The Women's Information Service, launched by Dr Watson in Perth last month, offers information to women in metropolitan and rural communities.

"The outreach and outpost programs are an integral part of the service," Dr Watson said in Geraldton today.

"It is a flexible and accessible service designed to meet the changing needs of women as we head toward the next century.

"The service takes practical, accurate and relevant information to the community when and where it is most needed."

Dr Watson said the outreach program in Geraldton was the first of many visits planned to rural parts of the State.

"Two information officers from the Women's Information Service will be in Geraldton for three days.  They will be on hand to provide women from the region with the information they require.

"The outreach visit coincides with the Wildflower Show, so women from outlying areas are more likely to visit town."

On Wednesday and Thursday, (September 9 and 10), two officers will be in Moora for the Central Midlands Show.

Dr Watson said the outreach program would aim to return to country areas once every 12 - 18 months.

"Women from country areas are being encouraged to use the service whenever they need it," she said.

"A central location operating a telephone information service has been set up within the Office of Women's Interests in Perth (008 199174 or 09 222-0444)."

Dr Watson said the State Government was committed to continue raising the status of all women in Western Australia by meeting their changing needs.

"The new service reflects initiatives announced by Premier Carmen Lawrence in 'The Social Advantage' document," she said.

"This document adopted a community-based approach to the delivery of Government services."