WA: New centre offers refuge from domestic violence
Wednesday June 17, 2009

WA: New centre offers refuge from domestic violence

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

New centre offers refuge from domestic violence
Portfolio: Child Protection
Child Protection Minister Robyn McSweeney today officially opened the Mary Smith Centre for Safety and Wellbeing – a purpose-built centre in Bentley for women and children seeking safety from violence and requiring associated support services.

In addition, Mrs McSweeney presented a $50,000 Lotterywest grant to equip the children’s areas within the centre.

“This Lotterywest grant will allow the Mary Smith Centre for Safety and Wellbeing to create a safe space for children to play and forget their cares,” she said.

Starick Services manages the centre with chief executive officer Arina Aoina praising Lotterywest for their support.

“The new centre is specifically designed to maximise the safety of families. With Lotterywest’s help, we will be able to create a wonderful sense of community too,” Ms Aoina said.

The Department of Housing funded the building of the Mary Smith Centre for Safety and Wellbeing, which is built on the site of the former Mary Smith Refuge.

The centre houses six new self-contained units to enable residents to maintain their independence while living in a secure environment.

The Mary Smith Centre for Safety and Wellbeing also provides a 24-hour crisis accommodation service for women and children seeking refuge from family and domestic violence.

For information on the Mary Smith Centre for Safety and Wellbeing, contact Starick Services on 9478 5300.

For information on Lotterywest grants, contact 9340 5270 or STD free call 1800 655 270.
Minister’s office – 9222 8950

Source: Ministerial Media Release

Stephen Page, Harrington Family Lawyers, Brisbane spage@harringtonfamilylawyers.com 61(7) 3221 9544
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