Support payments are being made available from today for those fleeing domestic violence situations. The “Escaping Violence Payment Scheme” comes as Australia has seen an increase in DV incidents during lockdowns across the country.
The $5000 support package will include $1500 in cash with the rest available as payments for necessities like bond, food, and school fees. Minister for Women’s Safety Anne Ruston says the program will not be means tested. She says, “We want to make sure it's available to every woman.”
The new scheme is part of a $144.5 million two-year government trial.
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