THE state government will tackle domestic violence in the Redlands, especially on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Minister Di Farmer announced today that more than $540,000 would be given to Centre for Women and Co to expand their support services throughout the next three years.
Ms Farmer said the funding boost was part of the state government’s commitment to implementing recommendations made in the Not Now, Not Ever report.
“Our investment in supporting people affected by domestic and family violence has been largely crisis-driven, and focused on helping victims stay safe,” she said.
“This new services recognises the impact of a woman’s experience of violence and trauma and the impact that can have on her longer term health and wellbeing.”
The money would be used by the Centre for Women and Co to employ additional staff who would help to further support domestic violence victims, including on the islands.
Last month police responded to eight domestic violence incidents on Russell Island alone.
Ms Farmer said victims could sometimes have their access to funds cut by controlling partners, meaning they could not pay to travel to the mainland for support.
Help would be provided discretely by visits to the island by centre staff.
Ms Farmer said Redlands MP Kim Richards had been pivotal to the renewed attention on Redlands domestic violence.
“Kim’s been a huge advocate for establishing a services specifically for the Redlands, which has its own unique set of needs,” she said.
Ms Farmer had visited the Redlands two weeks ago to meet with support agencies and networks.
She said a portion of the funds given to the centre would help them to better coordinate support service responses.
“It is always a challenge providing enough,” she said. “We want to make all resources are available at Redlands are utilised as much as possible.”
When asked if shelters for victims would be built, Ms Richards said a review was underway into support services. This would identify gaps in service provision.
“I’m proud to announce this new service to support local women to achieve social and economic independence and help them recover from the domestic, family and sexual violence they have experienced,” Ms Richards said.
“This is about providing longer term support to victims and I know this new women’s health and wellbeing support service will make a huge difference to women throughout the Redlands area.”
Redland City mayor Karen Williams said she had lobbied successive state governments for more domestic violence services in the Redlands, also meeting with Ms Farmer several times.
“… while we have made some good progress there is still much more to do,” Cr Williams said.
Always dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
Contact The Centre for Women and Co on 3050 3060 or visit centreforwomen.com.au.
