Local Domestic Violence Committees to get an increase in funding

NSW Local Domestic Violence Committees will now be able to apply for small grants of up to $1,000 to assist them with activities during the 16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women campaign. Previously, the Committees were eligible to apply for $600.

“16 days” is an international campaign to raise awareness around and end violence against women.  The campaign begins on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and ends on 10 December, World Human Rights Day. It also includes Stop Domestic Violence Day.

“Domestic violence affects up to 1 in 3 women in Australia. Around 1 in 5 women will experience sexual violence over their lifetime” said Minister for Women, Verity Firth.

“Local Domestic Violence Committees do a fantastic job raising awareness about the impact of domestic violence in our communities and the Government is delighted to be able to support the important work they are doing” said Minister Firth.

There are more than 90 Local Domestic Violence Committees in New South Wales, with some operating for over a decade. Their commitment to reduce and stop violence against women by raising awareness in local communities is exceptional. The funds will assist them in developing local media campaigns, promotional material and educational resources, or to run community events

The grants are part of the Iemma Government’s $2.9 million new Domestic and Family Violence Projects Grants Program. The grants program is an important part of the Government’s new, whole of government approach to improve coordination between agencies, service provision and training in the area of domestic and family violence.

“Our Government is determined to do everything we can to stamp out the scourge of domestic violence and make our communities safer for women and children,“ said Minister Firth

Calls for expressions of interest will be posted in local newspapers and be available on the Office for Women’s Policy website shortly.

Media contact person: David Boyd (02) 9228 4130