At-risk women and children facing violent and abusive situations in Port Augusta can access help and information from trained staff at a new safety hub open today.
A $100,000 Marshall Liberal Government boost has enabled infrastructure upgrades to the site and the purchase of a small van to help women from surrounding communities who need transport.
The Port Augusta hub has a focus on supporting Aboriginal women – and is designed to be a safe and welcoming space to access culturally appropriate services and support for anyone experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, or safety issues.
It features a safe-drop in space, phone and computer access – and women and children will receive one-on-one support from KWY staff.
Another hub will open in Gawler in early December, joining already operating hubs in Berri and Mt Barker. It delivers on a key Marshall Liberal Government commitment to open nine new government-led safety hubs in regional SA.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said the safety of South Australian women and children was a key Marshall Liberal Government priority.
"The Marshall Liberal Government is committed to tackling the scourge of domestic, family and sexual violence," said Minister Lensink.
"We're delivering record funding to provide support and help to South Australians experiencing domestic violence – and will continue to do whatever it takes to ensure people feel safe, supported and know where to turn to for help.
"Both the Port Augusta and Gawler hubs will be a safe and inviting space where women and their children can seek support and information when they really need it."
Assistant Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Carolyn Power said the Gawler safety hub will mean women and children don't have to travel far to get support.
She said 14 trained volunteers will help women and children in the Barossa, Light and Lower North region.
"Trained volunteers will ensure women are getting the support and access to specialist domestic, family and sexual violence services, as well as assistance with housing and legal matters," said Mrs Power.
"The Haven is a comfortable space with private interview rooms with phone and computer access, as well as quiet rooms to debrief along with regular community lunches, an op-shop and a community garden.
"Gawler was chosen as a safety hub site as it is a significant regional centre with key government and non-government services in place as well as high population growth predicted in the future.
"Each safety hub is tailored to address the specific needs of the local community, with the models in each region informed by consultation at domestic violence roundtable forums."
The Port Augusta Safety hub is open from today and located at 47 Stirling Rd, Port Augusta.
The Gawler Safety hub is set to open on December 8 and is located at Gawler Community House and the Gawler Children's Centre.
For more information about support services visit: breakthecycle.sa.gov.au
