Local domestic and family violence support service YFS Ltd has received a $45,000 grant to provide increased rental and accommodation assistance to victim-survivors.
The Jimboomba based organisation which supports the Beaudesert region was amongst 57 similar community groups across the state to benefit from a $2.5m allocation under the government’s DFV Rent Assist Brokerage program.
Assisted services can include providing rental assistance, addressing past rental debts that could affect future rental applications, addressing repair costs for rental properties damaged by DFV and covering rental arrears to prevent homelessness.
Importantly, service providers have flexibility in the allocation of funding, according to a client’s requirements and specific needs, such as acquiring essential household appliances.
YFS Domestic Violence Client Service Manager, Sarah Vuzem, said the new grant would enable them to assist women and children with housing-related costs to stay safely at home or secure new accommodation.
“Given the current housing crisis this financial support is essential,” she said.
Attorney-General, Yvette D’Ath, said its tragic that DFV remained the leading cause of homelessness for women across Australia.
“Our task is to ensure specialist DFV support services in our communities continue to have the funding and support to undertake their effective work and provide safe and ongoing housing options for those in crisis,” she said.
“The Miles Government will continue to prioritise strong laws and action against those committing DFV offences, including insidious forms of coercive and financial control, and we are committed to improving housing outcomes for victim-survivors in need.
“Our priority is focused on making sure those who are experiencing violence, and their families, can live safely and in secure environments free of fear.”
