Frontline domestic violence services in the Dubbo electorate will be given $600,000 in additional funding to ensure victims can access crucial help in their community.
Nationals Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders has announced the local recipients of the COVID-19 Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Infrastructure Grant Program supported by funding from the NSW Nationals in the federal government.
Three local services will share the $600,000 in funding:
* Connecting Community Services – refurbishment of owned cottage to cater for families and construct an accessible bathroom
* Orana Support Services – acquisition of three two-bedroom units
* Housing Plus – refurbishment of Western Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS) building to provide private entrance and kitchenette; procurement and installation of an audio-visual meeting room system; and construction of replacement laundry
“Frontline workers in our region are putting in a colossal effort to help people at-risk of domestic, family and sexual violence during the pandemic and ongoing recovery period,” Mr Saunders said.
“This funding will allow providers to improve access for people with disability, and help protect more women and children in our local community who suffer from violence and abuse.”
The Narromine Shire and Dubbo Regional local government areas have the seventh and eighth highest rates of domestic assault in the state, at almost three times the NSW average.
The announcement follows a $90 million boost in this month’s NSW Budget to support women and children impacted by domestic violence.
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).
