New funding will allow for the renovation, building or purchase of accommodation to support women and children experiencing family and domestic violence in Karratha.
The Federal Member for Durack, the Hon Melissa Price said this funding is an opportunity for a significant upgrade of emergency accommodation by the Salvation Army.
“This $5.5 million Safe Places program funding will allow for improved options to support women and children experiencing family and domestic violence in the Pilbara,” Ms Price said.
“I congratulate The Salvation Army. I am anticipating that this funding will provide more urgent emergency accommodation to help protect women and children in crisis with 10 self-continued units to be built with 2 and 3 bedrooms, who require a safe place to stay for up to 3 months,” she said.
Minister for Families and Social Services and Minister for Women’s Safety Anne Ruston said the Safe Places program was originally designed to help more than 6,000 Australian women and children.
“Women and children in regional and remote communities face specific challenges and often stay with family and friends to escape violent situations, though this is not always an option,” Minister Ruston said.
The Salvation Army has thanked local member Melissa Price for her visit to their facility in Karratha last year and her subsequent advocacy for assistance.
"The allocation of funds means we can address the demand and create the most beneficial service for the women and families we support,” The Salvation Army's WA Commander, Major Brad Potter said.
This funding forms part of the Morrison Government’s record $1.1 billion commitment to women’s safety in the 2021-22 Budget.
For more information on the Safe Places Emergency Accommodation grants, visit the Community Grants Hub.
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Media Contact:
Rose Crane 0427 587395, Rosemea.Crane@aph.gov.au.