Regional domestic violence services can now apply for a share of $8 million in the COVID-19 Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Infrastructure Grants program.
NSW Nationals Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the program was aimed at boosting the capacity of crucial frontline services through capital investment to respond to the continued challenges posed by the pandemic.
“These grants will go a long way to assist our community both now and into the future, and I strongly encourage organisations to apply,” Mr Anderson said.
“The funding could be used to upgrade a women’s refuge, improve accessibility, install audio-visual link technology or renovate an existing facility.
“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank all frontline services and their workers across our region for their unwavering dedication in supporting vulnerable victim-survivors.
“Victim-survivors often contact frontline services before they make the decision to go to the police, which is why it’s so important these organisations have the necessary capacity and facilities to deliver appropriate supports to those most in need.”
The program offers one-off grants with a minimum $25,000 value to eligible services.
The program, administered by the NSW Nationals in the state government, is part of the SW Nationals in the federal government’s $150 million Domestic Violence Support Package to address the increased risks faced by domestic violence victim-survivors during COVID-19.
This announcement follows the $21 million investment in frontline sexual, domestic violence support services and the nearly 100 frontline services awarded a share in more than $12 million of grants to help victim-survivors, announced last year in response to COVID-19.
Services can review the Funding Guidelines and submit an application using the SmartyGrants Portal. Applications will close at 5pm (AEST) on Friday, April 23.
For confidential advice, support and referrals related to domestic and family violence, contact: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 64 63) or Men’s Referral Service (1300 766 491).
