$33m rental assistance boost for victims of domestic violence

WOMEN and children fleeing violent homes will get a $33 million boost for rental assistance because of escalating demand.

Minister for Housing Martin Foley says the fastest-growing group of people in housing crisis is family violence victims.

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VICTIMS fleeing violent homes will get a $33 million boost for rental assistance.

More than 1000 Victorian households with women and children escaping violence are expected to be supported through the expansion of the Andrews Government’s rental program.

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An escalating demand has driven the funding boost after 500 households sought help through the initial $16m Private Rental Assistance Program in the past year.

“The one thing we know sadly is there aren’t a shortage of women in crisis in this space,” said Minister for Housing Martin Foley.

“The fastest-growing group of people in housing crisis is family violence victims, it outstrips any other category.”

Mr Foley said more women were stepping forward to seek help over time.

“I don’t think we are going to have any trouble, sadly, in spending every cent of this $33 million,” he said. “We need to make sure we protect those women and kids.”

“We need to make sure we protect those women and kids.”

The Private Rental Assistance Program was part of the $152 million housing package announced after the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

A further $2 million will support more victims through the Rapid Housing Program.