Upgrades to women’s refuges, expanded accommodation and better facilities for children and people with disability are just some of the improvements frontline services can now fund as part of an $8 million infrastructure grants program announced today.
Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman urged eligible services to apply for the one-off COVID-19 Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Infrastructure Grants program.
“It’s crucial services have the capacity to respond to the challenges posed by the pandemic now and in the future, including access to suitable spaces and facilities,” Mr Speakman said.
“Domestic violence services have seen increased demand during COVID-19, with victims also presenting with more complex needs. This program aims to help support these incredible services and workers that provide such critical care for women and children fleeing abuse.”
Grants with a minimum $25,000 value can be applied for under the program. The funds can be used for projects including capital investments, improving accessibility, Audio Visual Links installation at frontline services as well as renovations and upgrades to existing facilities.
Federal Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said today’s program was part of the Morrison Government’s $150 million Domestic Violence Support Package to address the increased risks faced by domestic violence victim-survivors during COVID-19.
“When women make the decision to leave it is vital that they have somewhere safe to go. These grants will help improve and expand the number of safe places for women and children in NSW as they rebuild their lives, free of violence,” Minister Ruston said.
This initiative follows the $21 million investment in frontline sexual, domestic and family violence services delivered by the Federal and NSW Governments and the nearly 100 frontline services awarded a share in more than $12 million of grants to help victim-survivors, announced last year in response to COVID-19.
Services can review the Funding Guidelines and submit an application using the SmartyGrants Portal. Applications will close at 5pm on Friday, 23 April 2021.
For more information, visit: womennsw.smartygrants.com.au.