Darwin’s dedicated shelter for Indigenous women has proudly opened a new playground today, bringing joy to children during an uncertain time.
The Darwin Aboriginal and Islander Women’s Shelter was the recipient of $80,000 Government funding as part of Starting Early For A Better Future initiatives to create better outcomes for children aged 0-5 and their families.
The shelter’s purpose to provide a safe and culturally appropriate space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women escaping domestic and family violence will be enhanced by the addition of facilities that provide for their children’s social and physical development.
It is critical that the developmental needs of children are provided for during a family’s difficult transition out of a violent situation. The playground will give children the opportunity to strengthen their social skills, build their confidence and self-esteem, and remain physically active.
The playground has been funded through the Starting Early For A Better Future’s Child and Family Community Fund.
In 2020-21, 12 communities were able to access up to $260,000 each from the fund, with a total of $2.21 million in grants being awarded to programs right across the Territory, including Palmerston, Tennant Creek, Katherine and Kalkarindji.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Children, Lauren Moss:
“The Northern Territory Government is committed to supporting local organisations and communities to lead the way in identifying their own aspirations and solutions.
“We are partnering with organisations that know and understand the needs of children and families to provide targeted, culturally safe and intensive support.
“These grants empower local communities to decide what form the services for their families should take.”
Quotes attributable to General Manager, Darwin Aboriginal and Islander Women’s Shelter, Regina Bennett:
“For children, play is the gateway to physical, cognitive and emotional development and has been shown to be a key factor in recovering from trauma, which is crucial for most of the children who come to stay here.
“This playground is really important for children staying at our service – the only dedicated shelter for Indigenous women escaping domestic and family violence in Darwin.”
Northern Territory Government
