Relationship support for Sunshine Coast

Couples in the Maroochydore area will for the first time have access to a nation-wide relationship counselling service.

Families and Community Services Minister Mal Brough today officially opened the Maroochydore office, set up by Relationships Australia Queensland with the Najidah Association.

"The new service will provide people within the region greater access to a range of family relationships services, including counselling and referral services," Mr Brough said.

"RAQ will offer mediation, relationship counselling, along with personal counselling support for families and communities.

"The Howard Government will contribute almost $6 million to RAQ through the Family Relationships Services Program in 2005-06."

With more than 50 years’ experience and operating from 37 outlets across Queensland, RAQ is a community-based, not-for-profit organisation providing services for almost 23,000 Queenslanders each year.

The organisation helps minimise the emotional, social and economic costs associated with disruption to family relationships.

Najidah was established in 1999 to respond to family violence and to help build safer communities.

"This co-location will increase the sharing of skills and knowledge between RAQ and Najidah," Mr Brough said.

"The Howard Government is committed to providing Australian families with the support and services to maintain healthy relationships," Mr Brough said

The office is located at the Home Plaza Centre in Maroochydore.