Opening of Women's Information Service

A service signalling a new era in the provision of information to women was launched today by the Minister assisting the Minister for Women's Interests, Judyth Watson.

The Women's Information Service will offer information to women in metropolitan and rural communities.

"It is a flexible and accessible service, designed to meet the changing needs of women as we head towards the next century," Dr Watson said.

"The new service expands on previous services to women by taking practical, accurate and relevant information to the community when and where it is most needed.

"Information will be provided on subjects such as older women's needs, education and training, violence and procedures for ensuring safety and family law.

"It will be presented in a way which is appropriate to women, with clearly written brochures, booklets, pamphlets and posters on a range of issues.

"Immediate information needs of women throughout the State will be dealt with by a telephone information service operating from the Office of Women's Interests (222 0444) or (008 199 174).

"The service will also provide outreach and outpost programs by taking information out to women in both suburban areas and non-metropolitan parts of the State."

Dr Watson said a central location for the service had been set up within the Office of Women's Interests in the May Holman Centre.

"Information will also be provided at community-based facilities in five metropolitan neighbourhoods," Dr Watson said.

"The first, the Multicultural Women's Health Centre in Mirrabooka, will be opened on Monday August 10.  The next service will start operating at King Edward Memorial Hospital from early September.

"Other strategic locations are being identified in co-operation with community groups and local government offices.

"The first information service outreach visit is planned for Geraldton next month.  The visit will provide women from the region with an opportunity to speak directly to Women's Information Service staff."

Dr Watson said the State Government was committed to raising continually the status of women in Western Australia by meeting the changing needs and responsibilities of women.

"The new service reflects initiatives announced by Premier Carmen Lawrence in the 'Social Advantage' document which adopted a community-based approach to the delivery of Government services," Dr Watson said.