Pilot program to help those experiencing family violence

THE state government is launching a pilot program to help women and children experiencing family violence to stay safely in their own home.

The program, Safe at Home, is being delivered by McAuley Community Services for Women, and will provide rapid safety planning and wraparound support, allowing women and children to stay in their homes.

It is delivered in partnership with Geelong organisation Meli and will mean victim survivors will be able to stay in the family home while the perpetrator moves elsewhere.

“We know that one of the biggest changes we can make to someone experiencing family violence is supporting them to stay in the home. That is what this pilot will deliver in the Geelong region,” Bellarine MP Alison Marchant said.

Safe at Home is designed to respond within 48 hours, identifying individual and household needs.

Victim survivors staying at home will receive tailored support and safety enhancements as well as case management and trauma counselling as part of the pilot.

Case management and short-term accommodation will also be provided for the perpetrator.

“This service will provide a vital service locally, stopping homelessness, and informing our statewide response to family violence,” Geelong MP Christine Couzens said.

Safety assessments will be conducted regularly and if it is unsafe for victims to remain where they are, they will be supported in moving.

The pilot program is based on input from women who have experienced family violence and homelessness.

McAuley Community Services will continue to provide their accommodation and social support at their accommodation sites, including in Geelong.

The state government has invested a further $72.1 million in providing immediate support and emergency accommodation for survivors of family violence.

For more information, head to mcauley.org.au