Galiwin’ku Women’s Space domestic violence service in urgent funding plea
The service says the $250,000 shortfall has led to closures and disruptions, ‘jeopardising the support and safety net provided to the community’.
Northern Territory
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A critical women’s service and domestic violence shelter on Elcho Island is pleading for $250,000 in “urgent” funding as financial instability poses a “significant threat” to its operations.
The Galiwin’ku Women’s Space opened in 2022 as a “space dedicated to the support and empowerment of women on Elcho Island”, including crisis and preventive services for victims of domestic violence.
But in a fundraiser launched on International Women’s Day on Friday, the GWS said “urgent funds” were needed to keep critical services for women and families in Northeast Arnhem Land operating.
“This Yolngu-led Aboriginal Corporation offers an array of services, including domestic violence crisis accommodation, case management, outreach support and wellbeing programs, tailored to meet the unique needs of this remote Indigenous community,” it reads.
“Despite the undeniable importance of the Galiwin’ku Women’s Space, our services face a significant threat due to financial instability.
“Already this year, we have encountered closures and disruptions, a direct result of insufficient funds to address ongoing challenges.
“The continuity of our programs is at risk, jeopardising the support and safety net provided to the community.”
In issuing the “heartfelt plea”, the service said the $250,000 target was “to secure the future of the Galiwin’ku Women’s Space”, with the funds used to build capacity, repair facilities and help deliver services 24/7.
“By contributing, you are not just donating — you are investing in the wellbeing and empowerment of Aboriginal women and families in one of the largest remote Indigenous communities in East Arnhem Land,” it reads.
“Your support enables us to continue our crucial work, ensuring that every woman and family in Galiwin’ku has access to the support they need.
“As a charity deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Galiwin’ku, every contribution empowers us to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”
The GWS was named the joint winner of the Fitzgerald Justice Award at the 2023 NT Human Rights Awards after developing the Gurrutu framework as part of their case management model for supporting victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence.
Domestic Violence Prevention Minister Kate Worden’s office said the government was committed to supporting crisis centres like GWS.
“We have been meeting with the centre and have conducted site visits to figure out what more assistance we can give,” she said.
She said they had provided $943,000 in funding over the past financial year.
“We are continually working with GWS to address any concerns that have been raised, including from recent flooding events.”
To donate visit: https://givenow.com.au/galiwinkuwomen
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Originally published as Galiwin’ku Women’s Space domestic violence service in urgent funding plea
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