Families fleeing domestic violence will soon have a safe place to seek refuge in the Georges River area, with the NSW Government investing $40,000 to support crisis accommodation.
Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said he was delighted the NSW Government could pitch in for such a worthy project.
“Domestic violence is a terrible scourge that impacts all corners of our society and frontline services do an outstanding job supporting victims in need,” Mr Speakman said.
“It’s during the immediate crisis point when a victim chooses to leave a violent home that they can often be at greatest risk, so it’s vital there’s a safe place to stay during that time.”
The grant for Kingsway Community Care will help to open a refuge in the Georges River area, with Platform Nine already operating in the Sutherland Shire.
Member for Oatley Mark Coure said the funds would support repairs and maintenance for the new premises, including bathroom renovations, driveway construction, as well as painting and electrical services to ensure the building is safe and fit-for-purpose.
“This investment will help deliver a safe and properly-equipped place for women and their children to call home while they begin to navigate the very difficult path to recovery,” Mr Coure said.
Kingsway Community Care General Manager Brook Stewart welcomed the Government’s investment and said it would make a positive difference for survivors seeking safety.
“Home is where most of us feel most safe, but for those who walk through our doors that safe place does not exist. That’s why we work to ensure they have support and a team of compassionate staff to lend a helping hand when they need it most,” Mr Stewart said.
“This grant means we can provide more crisis accommodation to empower more people and ultimately help them transition into longer term housing or independent living when they’re back on their feet.”
Work on the property is expected to begin in the coming days with the refuge set to open its doors in the first half of the year.
Download media release: NSW Government domestic violence grant to boost refuge build
