Labor’s $20k donation will brighten future for South West Refuge

Crisis accommodation provider South West Refuge could see an upgraded heating system in the future, after Bunbury MLA Don Punch announced a re-elected McGowan Government would provide $20,000 for the service.

The service helps women and children escaping domestic or family violence in the South West by providing 24-hour crisis accommodation, transitional housing and a safe at-home program.

Work to upgrade the accommodation facilities last year revealed the heating systems were no longer fit for purpose and needed replacing, Mr Punch said.

He said the refuge had undergone some significant improvements, but needed upgrades to the ageing heating system to ensure the comfort of women and children staying in its accommodation.

We are lucky in Bunbury to have exceptional local community services and committed staff and volunteers.

“The women and children staying at the refuge are particularly vulnerable and we should be doing everything we can to help make sure the facilities are as comfortable and accessible as possible,” he said.

“The South West Refuge team have worked incredibly hard to expand and improve the accommodation services it offers, and finding a problem half way through a project with a very tight budget is always a real challenge for not-for-profit organisations.

“This commitment will enable the South West Refuge to finish off its ambitious building program to the high standards they set for the care and support of vulnerable women and children.

Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Simone McGurk visited the refuge while in the South West to see how the funding would help the service.