Support for victim-survivors of family and sexual violence will be boosted by a new centre that will offer wrap around support and safety services in Launceston.
Work on the new Northern Arch centre is well underway, with Anstie Constructions expected to complete the redevelopment on schedule for a mid-2023 opening.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, said Tasmania's $15.1 million Arch centres will provide a coordinated and trauma-informed support service for victim-survivors in a purpose-built safe place.
"The centres will offer immediate support and safety services to victim-survivors, including counselling and specialist police investigators," Minister Ellis said.
"Victim-survivors will be able to access critical support services such as Laurel House in the north and will receive coordinated, trauma-informed care.
"Investigators from Tasmania Police and the Australian Federal Police will be working together as part of these Centres to bring child sex offenders to justice, protecting Tasmanian children and vulnerable people."
Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Jo Palmer, said the centre design is focused on the needs of victim-survivors.
"Tasmania's Arch centres are an integral aspect of the Rockliff Government's $100 million investment to implement the third Family and Sexual Violence Action Plan, Survivors at the Centre," Minister Palmer said.
"We have designed a warm, calm and residential based space where staff can help empower victim-survivors.
"This includes interview rooms where victim-survivors can have their evidence recorded by discrete technology to allow them to feel as comfortable as possible. The sites have also been designed with accessibility facilities as well as child friendly areas."
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual or family violence, please call the state-wide Sexual Assault Crisis Line on 1800 697 877 or the Family Violence Response and Referral Line on 1800 633 937.
In an emergency always call 000.
