Media Release by The Hon Larry Anthony MP

Government funding to help domestic violence victims

Joint Media Release with:

  • Hon. Dean Brown MP, South Australian Minister for Human Services

Federal Minister for Community Services, Larry Anthony and SA Human Services Minister, Dean Brown, today announced an increase of $130,000 in annual funding for domestic violence accommodation and support services in Adelaide.

Mr Anthony said the funding would help the Salvation Army’s Bramwell House provide additional support and accommodation services to women and children escaping domestic violence.

“This funding will allow Bramwell House to continue their important work in helping women and children victims of domestic violence in Adelaide,” Mr Anthony said.

Mr Brown said the Commonwealth and State Governments are committed to working together to provide services that help families escape from domestic violence.

“Domestic violence attacks the very core of family life with tragic effects, especially on children,” Mr Brown said. “The physical, emotional and financial costs to the whole community are devastating.

“It is essential that we provide these families with a safe and supportive environment in which they can start rebuilding their lives.”

“The partnership between the South Australian and Federal Governments is a significant factor in helping the people of Adelaide develop and maintain a stronger community.”

The funding is part of the joint Commonwealth and State funded Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP).

Mr Anthony said the SAAP currently provides South Australia with $22.4 million towards vital accommodation and support services to women and children escaping domestic violence and to homeless single adults, young people and families.

“State and Territory governments recently endorsed the continuation of SAAP for a further five years,” said Mr Anthony.

“Direct support for homeless people was strengthened earlier this year by the Commonwealth’s commitment of a further $105 million to SAAP over the life of the new agreements.

“Governments throughout Australia are continually looking at ways to help victims of domestic violence re-gain their independence and participate, as much as possible, in the community.”