Minister for Women Pru Goward today announced $400,000 in funding to help a vital domestic and family violence support service continue in Penrith.
Last year there were 992 domestic violence related assaults in Penrith, a 13.9 percent increase from the previous year.*
The Bridges Project provides support services to women in the Penrith and St Marys area who have contacted the police about a domestic and family violence incident.
“I’m very pleased that the NSW Government is helping another critical community service run for a further four years,” Ms Goward said.
“The Bridges Project links women who have experienced domestic violence with experts who can provide emotional support, safety advice and information about court proceedings.
“Unlike the former Labor Government we are committed to ensuring we work closely with the non-government sector, recognising the important role it plays in delivering services to women and children affected by domestic and family violence.
“I commend the Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres on his strong advocacy in raising awareness of Domestic Violence in Western Sydney.”
Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said he is delighted the NSW Government is able to assist in keeping this service open.
“It is important that people experiencing domestic violence in Western Sydney have access to information and support about their options,” Mr Ayres said.
“This service provides that much needed support and access locally to our community.”
Funding for the Bridges Project is provided by the Department of Family and Community
Services. For more information on domestic violence visit www.domesticviolence.nsw.gov.au
*Source: NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, March 2011 Quarterly Update
