Vinnies NSW welcomes State Government investment in domestic violence refuges

Vinnies NSW is welcoming the State Government’s announcement that will see it invest hundreds of millions of dollars in accommodation for women and children escaping domestic violence.

“This is the kind of announcement we have been seeking from government for some time, so it’s very pleasing to see happen.

“There is a strong need for more accommodation for women and children who are experiencing domestic violence and this is the sort of thing that will provide significant help,” St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO, Jack de Groot, said.

“It’s also important to note that, from today, women leaving violent relationships can start accessing payments of up to $5,000, in a two-year trial funded by the Federal Government.

“That said, after the Commonwealth’s Women’s Safety Summit largely left accommodation off the agenda, it’s good to see NSW leading the way on that issue.

“Having sufficient accommodation is a major safety issue in when it comes to domestic violence.

“We know that thousands of women return to violent homes because they are unable to find alternative places to live.

“There is always a need for more accommodation like this but this is a really good step in the right direction,” Mr de Groot said.

“The Society runs a number of the domestic violence refuges that already exist in NSW and they are always busy,” St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Vice President – Social Justice, Brooke Simmons, said.

“It’s fantastic to see the number of new refuges this funding will create.

“They should, hopefully, be able to alleviate some of the pressure we are seeing now.

“At the Society we have also been calling for additional investment in support services for women experiencing domestic violence as well.

“Having sufficient accommodation is an important part of helping women and children escape domestic violence but there is more to it than that.

“There is casework and trauma counselling, assistance with finding long-term housing, and a range of other factors that go into ensuring they have a safe future.

“Investment in these as well would also go a long way to easing strains in the system,” Ms Simmons said.

Media contact: Lachlan Jones | 0417 446 430