Despite a slight fall over the last 12 months, there were almost 1,000 domestic violence-related assaults in Cumberland last year.
Domestic Violence NSW Interim CEO Elyse Phillips says it is imperative there is adequate support for women who are leaving domestic violence and working towards financial independence.
“Women living in refuges have often had to leave violent homes with nothing, so the Return to Work Program is vital to empowering these women and giving them the opportunity to pursue their own goals,” Ms Phillips said.
Eligible women will be supported by Service NSW Return to Work Coordinators to develop a Return to Work Plan which sets out the resources to get back in the workforce.
Minister for Women, Bronnie Taylor, says the program is about empowering these courageous victim-survivors of domestic violence to enter or re-enter the workforce by providing them with the financial support to secure a job, regain independence and feel optimistic about the future.
For more, visit facs.nsw.gov.au.
Victims offered $5,000
WOMEN escaping abusive relationships who are residing in domestic violence refuges, will be offered grants of up to $5,000 to purchase equipment, education and training, transport, childcare and other associated costs to help them re-enter the workforce.