A Gold Coast women and children’s refuge is hurrying to install new security installations after government authorities found inadequate security was putting the shelter residents at risk of violence.
Workplace Health & Safety Queensland told the Gold Coast Bulletin they issued an Improvement Notice to the Salvation Army’s Still Waters refuge facility for domestic violence victims at Southport last year after they observed unauthorised personnel had unrestricted access.
Spokesman for Salvation Army Australia Steve Speziale told the Gold Coast Bulletin they have since installed a swipe card access to one door and a lock to another door, with security works this week having no disruption to their provided services.
Shadow Minister for Women Ros Bates told the Gold Coast Bulletin the security risks are concerning given the presence of domestic violence victims at the refuge.
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