WOMEN fleeing a violent relationship will have access to a one-off payment of up to $5000 from the Federal Government to help them establish a new life.
Under the two-year Escaping Violence Payment trial, women will receive financial assistance of up to $1500 in cash with the remainder available for goods and services or direct payments of bonds, school fees or other support to help establish a safe home.
Member for Mallee Anne Webster said the payment would help to address the issues that were barriers for some victims leaving violent relationships.
“Sadly, these issues are as prevalent across Mallee as anywhere else,” Dr Webster said.
“These payments will assist people who need that financial support to be able to leave.
“Women and their children have the right to live safely and free of fear.
“I want to see women caught in these situations being given the best opportunity to have their livelihoods, and their children’s livelihoods restored.”
As part of the individualised support packages, UnitingCare Network agencies will provide tailored assistance and engage with other relevant agencies that support women and their children, including other federal or state and territory government-funded community services.
Minister for Women’s Safety Anne Ruston said the payments would help address the financial barriers that may stop women leaving violent relationships.
“We know that financial hardship as well as economic abuse, which may involve interfering with work or controlling or withholding money, reduces women’s ability to acquire and use money and makes it difficult to leave violent relationships,” Ms Ruston said.
