At-risk women in regional areas have access to more domestic violence support than ever, with a new State-first network of 10 safety hubs now open.
Welcoming the full operation of the network, Minister for Human Services, Michelle Lensink said safety hubs from Mt Gambier to Port Pirie and Port Augusta would help South Australians seek help, information and referrals when they needed it.
Ms Lensink said each safety hub was tailored specifically to each region and was a place where women could access information, referrals and support from trained staff and volunteers.
“They may also be assisted with housing and legal matters, family intervention, counselling, drug and alcohol services, or offer drop in spaces with phone and computer access,” she said.
Ms Lensink said the safety hubs were open to anyone, including people who were concerned for friends or relatives they believed to be experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence.
The Minister said safety hubs now open included:
Goolwa – The Haven Goolwa safety hub, Goolwa Library, 11 Cadell St Goolwa, open from 10am – 2pm Monday to Friday;
Port Pirie – The Haven at Port Pirie, 28 Symonds St, Risdon Park, Tuesday to Thursday 10am-2pm;
Port Lincoln – Women’s Wellbeing and Safety Centre, 34 Mortlock Tce;
Murray Bridge – The Haven at Murray Bridge Community Centre, 9am-4pm Monday to Friday;
Berri – contact Riverland Domestic Violence Service on (08) 8582 2100, after hours at 1800 800 098 or at [email protected];
Port Augusta – run by KWY, 47 Stirling Rd Port Augusta;
Gawler – The Haven at Gawler Community Centre, 9am-4pm Monday to Friday;
Mount Barker – The Haven at Mount Barker Community Centre, 9am-4pm Monday to Thursday, 9am-3.30pm Friday and Willows Children’s Centre, Tuesday mornings during school term;
Mount Gambier – The Haven at Mount Gambier Library, 9am-4pm Monday to Friday; and
Whyalla – The Haven at Centacare Catholic Country SA Whyalla.
If you or someone you know is at risk, please call the 24/7 Domestic Violence Crisis Line on 1800 800 098 or 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732.
