Funding To Help Sexual And Domestic Violence Survivors

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has today welcomed Commonwealth Government funding to help support frontline domestic violence services across our region to ensure that survivors can access critical assistance.

Mr Ward has announced the local recipients of the COVID-19 Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Infrastructure Grant Program funded by the Federal Government.

The funding allocations for frontline services includes to nearly $100,000 for:

• Illawarra Women’s Health Centre – modification of external ramps, widening of entrances, sound proofing counselling room, and installing security screens on external doorways;  
• Supported Accommodation and Homelessness Services Shoalhaven Illawarra (SAHSSI) – refurbishment of client bathrooms and toilet; internal paint of client rooms and common spaces; and
• Supported Accommodation and Homelessness Services Shoalhaven Illawarra (SAHSSI) – upgrade to children’s outdoor play space, including installation of new play equipment and suitable soft-fall surface.

“Our local frontline workers are putting in a huge effort to help people at-risk of domestic, family and sexual violence during the pandemic and ongoing recovery period,” he said.  

“This funding will help to protect more women and children in our local community who suffer from violence and abuse by enhancing frontline supports available to them.

“These grants will include funding upgrades at women’s shelters and new crisis accommodation with enhanced security,” Mr Ward said.

Today’s announcement follows a $90 million budget boost to support women and children impacted by domestic violence announced as part of the NSW Budget this month.

For confidential advice, support and referrals, contact: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 64 63) or Men's Referral Service (1300 766 491).