The UnitingCare Australia Consortium has been selected to deliver a pilot program providing financial assistance and wrap-around support to assist people escaping family violence. 

The Escaping Violence Payment is funded by the Morrison Government as part of its $1.1 billion commitment in the 2021-22 Federal Budget to help end violence against women and children. 

UnitingCare Australia National Director, Claerwen Little, said the payment was a vital step forward in the fight to end violence against women and their children. 

“Every person has the right to live their lives in safety, with dignity, and free from all forms of violence, including domestic, family and sexual violence.  

“Sadly, we know that family violence disproportionately affects women. This payment will provide vital assistance to help those people who need financial support to leave,” said Ms Little. 

Nine service agencies from the UnitingCare Network will deliver the program ensuring a local footprint right across the country. Wesley Mission (NSW and ACT), UnitingCare (QLD), Uniting WA, Uniting Communities (SA), UnitingCare Wesley Bowden (SA), Uniting SA, Uniting Country SA, Somerville (NT) join together with Uniting Vic.Tas (Vic and Tas) as the lead agency. 

“This payment is about more than just providing financial assistance. It will help women and their children by providing them with the support they need to leave violent relationships,” said Uniting Vic.Tas CEO, Bronwyn Pike. 

“If you’re experiencing family violence or feeling vulnerable, you’re not alone. This is about supporting you and your children so you feel safe and can move forward and includes all of the wrap around services UnitingCare agencies provide such as counselling and support to help you find new accommodation.”  

The Escaping Violence Payment program will commence on 19th October and provide assistance up to $5000 for individuals, including financial assistance up to $1500 along with goods, services, in addition to wrap-around support for anyone wanting to leave a violent partner. 

For more information visit unitingvictas.org.au/escaping-violence-payment

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