Bligh Government funding of almost $185,000 over three years, has been provided to help women escaping domestic violence receive the legal support they need.
Community Services Minister Karen Struthers congratulated the Women’s Legal Service for its work supporting abused women.
“Women leaving violent situations are often intimidated by the legal process or do not have the financial resources to obtain commercially provided legal services.
“The Women’s Legal Service helps women to access free legal advice in a supportive environment,” Ms Struthers said.
The Women’s Legal Service has been supporting women in need for over twenty years. Currently there are over 100 volunteers who give their time to make a difference to women in need.
“I commend the service and all its volunteers for the valuable work they do. I am pleased to be announcing funding to such a worthy organisation.
“This funding is part of the Bligh Government’s Toward Q2 vision to create safer and fairer communities for all Queenslanders.
“That’s why in addition to funding domestic violence support services across Queensland, the Government is supporting Family Violence Prevention Month which runs from 1 to 31 May.
“This is about sending a clear message that violence in the home is unacceptable and it should not be tolerated for any reason.”
Ms Struthers also welcomed the Rudd Government’s recent Time for Action report of the National Council to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.”
“The Prime Minister’s recent announcement of over $12.5 million for a new national telephone and online crisis service shows how seriously domestic violence is being taken nationally.
“The Rudd Government has also allocated $17 million for a public information campaign to change attitudes and behaviours that contribute to violence in our community.”
Minister Struthers urged anyone who is experiencing domestic or family violence to seek assistance.
“Women can phone the DV connect helpline 24 hours a day on 1800 811 811. Men requiring assistance can phone the DV connect Mensline on 1800 600 636,” she said.
Media Contact: Nadine Eckert (Minister’s office) direct 3237 0993
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