More domestic violence support for regional women

At-risk women in regional areas have access to more domestic violence support thanks to a new state-first network of safety hubs now open from Mt Gambier to Berri and Port Augusta helping South Australians seek help, information and referrals when they need it.

On 22 October 2021, a seventh women’s safety hub will open in Whyalla — one of a number of regional hubs to be fast-tracked with the support of $325,000 from the Federal Government during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The extension of the safety hubs in 2021 into regional SA included two new centres opening in Goolwa and Port Pirie and a tenth hub set to open in Port Lincoln.

Tailored support

Hubs are tailored to each region. All provide information and referrals for domestic violence support, as well as information on:

• housing
• police and legal matters
• family intervention
• financial counselling
• mental health medical services
• drug and alcohol services.

Most hubs offer private drop-in spaces with phone and computer access — a simple but vital service for women who can’t freely seek information or access services in their own homes.

Women in regional areas can also access state-wide programs and schemes, including the 24/7 Domestic Violence Crisis Line and Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme to ensure at-risk women and their children have access to support, help and safe accommodation from all across South Australia.

Safety hubs are run by trained and up-skilled local volunteers who not only help women to access services, but also boost community understanding about domestic violence.

Regional safety hubs are located at:

Berri

Phone Riverland Domestic Violence Service on (08) 8582 2100
After hours phone 1800 800 098
Email rdvs@centacare.org.au.

Gawler

The Haven at Gawler Community Centre,
open 9.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Friday.

Goolwa

Now recruiting volunteers.

Mount Barker

The Haven at Mount Barker Community Centre,
open 9.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Thursday, 9.00 am to 3.30 pm Friday

Willows Children's Centre,
Tuesday mornings during school term.

Mount Gambier

The Haven at Mount Gambier Library,
open 9.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Friday.

Murray Bridge

The Haven at Murray Bridge Community Centre,
open 9.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Friday.

Port Augusta

47 Stirling Rd Port Augusta. Run by KWY

Port Lincoln

Work is in progress.

Port Pirie

Now recruiting volunteers

Whyalla

The Haven at Centacare Catholic Country SA Whyalla,
opening late October 2021.