Supporting victims of forced marriage

A special home for the victims of forced marriage will offer a safe place for them to rebuild their lives.

Minister for Social Services Dan Tehan today announced the Government was providing $750,000 to support a secure and comfortable family-style home in Melbourne for victims of early and forced marriage that will offer 24/7 live-in support from experienced carers and specialists.

“This home will give victims a safe place to heal, build new community connections and re-engage with education and employment opportunities,” Mr Tehan said.

“Forcing anybody to get married is a serious crime in Australia and a fundamental violation of their human rights.

“The Government is committed to providing protection and support to the victims of forced marriage.

“The Lighthouse Foundation will receive the funding to establish the new facility under the Third Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and Their Children 2010-2022.

“Lighthouse Foundation has 25 years of experience working with young people who have experienced trauma, and are well placed to offer the individually tailored and responsive wrap-around therapeutic support services that victims of early and forced marriage need.”