​Vital funding has been extended to the Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre to help deliver frontline services to women and children experiencing domestic and family violence.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the funding will support a Women’s Safety Coordinator role.

“This position, within the Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre, will play an important role in the prevention, early intervention, healing and recovery of local women and their families,” Mr Park said.

“As Minister for Regional Health it is one of my priorities to improve access and remove barriers women face in accessing healthcare services in rural and regional communities.

“This important investment from the NSW Government will ensure women and their families in the Dubbo community continue to receive the key support and health services they need.

“The Women’s Safety Coordinator will have a particular focus on supporting safety for Aboriginal women and will enhance the Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre’s Aboriginal Family Wellbeing and Violence Prevention Program.”

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said Aboriginal staff in these services provide holistic and whole of community care, promoting healing and cultural inclusivity, to facilitate access to health services for all Aboriginal community members.

“Strong local coordination is so important to healing and recovery for women and families who are experiencing domestic and family violence and I’m confident this role will support vital whole of community care,” Mr Harris said.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison welcomed the NSW Government investment in this vital service.

“Family and domestic violence affects the physical, psychological and social health of many women and children throughout the state,” Ms Harrison said.

“Positions like these are at the heart of our work to prevent and respond to domestic and family violence.”

Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre CEO Michelle Redden said the committed funding has been vital in holistically supporting women in their local community by funding an Aboriginal coordinator.

“This position is unique to our community, providing a culturally sensitive counselling and advocacy support to women who have experienced domestic and family violence,” Ms Redden said.

If you or someone you know needs support, you can contact the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).