Women and families in Coonamble and Walgett who are victims of domestic violence will have more support after ending violent relationships.
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The Coonamble and Walgett areas have been included in an extended NSW government domestic violence program which supports women to stay in their home while the perpetrator is removed.
The NSW government plan to invest $6.2 million to expand the Staying Home Leaving Violence program over four years.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Pru Goward said the expansion would support more than 1100 women and their children to stay in their homes or their home of choice after ending a violent relationship.
“Staying Home Leaving Violence enables victims of domestic violence to re-build their lives in their own home, and remain in their community while the perpetrator is removed,” Ms Goward said.
“We know domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness and this expansion will help even more people leaving abusive relationships start a new life free from violence.”
Ms Goward said the program would provide a range of support, including safety planning, improved home security, help in managing finances and legal issues and support for children.
“Women who are separated from a violent partner but continue to experience abuse from their ex-partner are prioritised,” she said.
The expansion to Griffith, Port Stephens, Albury, Richmond Valley and Coonamble/Walgett is part of the NSW Government's Homelessness Strategy for 2018 to 2023.
Ms Goward said the expansion of the program demonstrated the NSW Liberals and nationals government was “leading the nation in tackling domestic and family violence.”
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research shows the rate of recorded domestic violence assaults in the year to June 2018 in Coonamble LGA and in Walgett LGA were 3.6 and 6.6 times the NSW average respectively.
If you or anyone you know are dealing with domestic violence contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline on 13 11 14
Do you have a story? Email: antonia.oflaherty@fairfaxmedia.com.au
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