Kylie Temple, Project Coordinator for Community Partnerships Against Domestic and Family Violence says, “The idea developed through consultation with local community service providers. It was alarming that no services were available specifically to address domestic violence in the area.

The combination of domestic violence, geographical isolation and prevalence of firearms in rural areas create a recipe for significant harm. I would strongly encourage women experiencing domestic violence to contact one of our partner agencies for information or to access the service.”

Kim Lawrence from the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group Inc said “Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group is proud to be part of the Taxi Initiative and Domestic and Family Violence Support Worker. It is a service that is long overdue for women within our Gloucester community. Women can now feel that they have a safe option for travel in times of crisis, and are supported in their time of need by a caring professional.”

Between the census collection in 2001 and 2006 the incidence of reported domestic violence, sexual and indecent assaults have doubled in the Gloucester LGA. (Taken from the Gloucester Shire Council Community Plan)

There is a local committee called the Gloucester Domestic Violence Monitoring Committee that meets bi monthly to address DV issues and coordinate DV events (to raise awareness within the community). Senior Constables Ros Lovell and Kristie Critchley (Taree Police Station) are an integral part of this committee along with service providers and community members.

‘Safe Passage’ is a joint project between Community Partnerships Against Domestic and Family Violence, Community Transport, Buckett’s Way Neighbourhood Group Inc and Lyn’s Place Emergency Accommodation Services.

For further information or to make an appointment, please contact (02) 6558 2454 during business hours or (02) 6551 0011 after hours and on weekends.