Domestic violence victim-survivors, Aboriginal Australians and people who’ve lost their jobs or homes as a result of COVID-19 will be among those to benefit from a $15.6 million injection into the NSW legal assistance sector.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said Central Coast residents would benefit from the statewide funding boost.
“COVID-19 has placed a huge amount of pressure on families and individuals on the Central Coast – whether it be job losses, tenancy issues or the increasing risk of domestic violence,” Mr Crouch said.
“This $15.6 million injection will ensure vulnerable members of our community can access free legal advice through Legal Aid NSW, Community Legal Centres, and the Aboriginal Legal Service.
“Included in this statewide investment is $18,000 for the Central Coast Community Legal Centre at Gosford to improve its ICT facilities and deliver more legal assistance remotely.”
Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said that more than 40 per cent of the $15.6 million funding injection would be directed towards frontline services helping people experiencing domestic and family violence.
“We have heard horrific stories from victims and advocates about domestic violence perpetrated while victims have been isolated alongside their abusers due to COVID-19,” Mr Speakman said.
“In the last nine weeks alone five women and one man have been tragically killed in domestic violence incidents across NSW.
“We all have a part to play in tackling this epidemic. This funding will help victim-survivors get the advice they need to ensure perpetrators are held to account, support them in escaping violent households and ultimately help us save lives.”
