Minister for Women Joy Burch today launched a new guide providing valuable information on financial matters to women escaping domestic violence.
Women’s Money Matters was produced by the Women’s Centre for Health Matters and not-for-profit financial counselling service Care Inc, using an ACT Government Women’s Grant of $24,580. It was launched during Anti-Poverty Week.
“WCHM and CARE Financial have worked with local women to ensure that resources developed through this project meet their specific needs,” Ms Burch said.
“While many women today have economic security and financial independence, we know that this is not true for all ACT women, particularly marginalised groups of women and those who have experienced violence.
“Financial security is critical to a women’s ability to escape from abuse, recover from its impacts and gain control over their lives. Unfortunately one in three Australian women will experience violence in her lifetime, and the majority of Canberrans who experience financial hardship are women.
“The ACT Government is committed to addressing domestic violence through a range of strategies, for example working with those who commit violence through to supporting women and children who experience domestic violence.
“Resources such as Women’s Money Matters are a part of the ACT Government’s commitment to make Canberra a safer community for women and their children.”
In 2014-15, the ACT Government will provide around $3.3 million in funding for programs that address domestic violence.
Women’s Money Matters is available at www.wchm.org.au/women’s-money-matters.
(Joy Burch Media Release)