Joint release with Marion Scrymgour MP, Member for Lingiari

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As part of the Government’s plan for A Better, Safer Future for Central Australia we are investing $7.6 million in additional support for women and children experiencing domestic violence and expanding temporary accommodation places.

Women’s Safety Services of Central Australia (WoSSCA) will receive $4.1 million over four years to fund six additional roles for the Central Australia region. 

An additional case manager position will increase the number of women and families that can be supported in Yuendumu, Papunya, Ntaria and Ti Tree. 

This extra capacity will enable WoSSCA to clear their existing wait list in these remote communities and reduce the need for people to travel to Alice Springs to seek help.

In 2024, WoSSCA will also engage a new Children’s Advocate who will support children who currently make up almost 30 per cent of WoSSCA’s clients. 

Family violence has a significant impact on children. This funding will help identify children’s needs and connect them to specialist services to support their wellbeing. 

Last financial year, WoSSCA helped more than 1000 women and children in Alice Springs and surrounding areas, delivering crucial assistance ranging from temporary accommodation to proactive case management, connecting those in need with organisations, services and programs that aim to prevent and respond to gender based violence.

Aboriginal Hostels Limited (AHL) will receive $3.5 million to construct up to 20 additional short-term beds at Apmere Mwerre Visitor Park in Alice Springs, offering families a safe place to sleep and to seek support. 

AHL plays an important role in First Nations communities, providing a home away from home with safe, affordable and culturally appropriate accommodation.

The Government’s investment responds to calls from First Nations communities, the Central Australian Aboriginal Leadership Group, service providers and organisations for increased domestic violence and accommodation services. 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McCarthy

“All women and children deserve to feel safe and supported. This practical investment in support services and programs will help build stronger and safer communities in Alice Springs and Central Australia.”

“The provision of additional caseworkers and temporary accommodation places are incredibly important in ensuring women and families will have a safe place to stay.”

Quotes attributable to Marion Scrymgour MP, Member for Lingiari

“We are committed to working with Central Australian community leaders and supporting frontline organisations to protect and support First Nations women and children experiencing family violence, that’s why we’re taking practical action at a local level.

“The best way to build stronger, safer communities in Central Australia is through practical investments in the services and programs that make a difference.”

Quotes attributable to WoSSCA CEO Larissa Ellis

“Our services deliver a crucial support for women and children in Alice Springs and surrounding communities and with this funding we’re ensuring that if women need our help, we can be better positioned to provide it. 

“When it comes to family violence – where you live shouldn’t dictate how much support you can get, that’s why we’re focussing on our services for regional communities to ensure that support is where it’s needed most.”

Quotes attributable to AHL CEO Dave Chalmers AO, CSC

“The additional accommodation that this project will provide in Alice Springs will meet a clear community need for safe, affordable and culturally appropriate accommodation.”

“This funding will add to the number of beds available at AHL's Apmere Mwerre Visitor Park in Alice Springs and we are pleased to be part of the Australian and Northern Territory Governments' important work in Central Australia.”