Central West Women's Health Centre are set to receive $100,000 towards the Place2Be Safe Project thanks to the NSW Government, as part of the $37.2 million Local Small Commitments Allocation Program.

The funds delivered as part of the Local Small Commitments Allocation program will enable the Central West Women’s Health Centre to scale up domestic and family violence services by increasing counselling service capacity, education and health promotion program delivery, as well as introducing specialised case management services. The funding will also play a critical role in freeing up specialist counselling time to assist women experiencing complex trauma.

Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said this is a fantastic outcome for the Central West Women's Health Centre and the women of Bathurst.

“I’m pleased to be making this important announcement confirming NSW Government funding for the Place2Be Safe Project as part of the Local Small Commitments Allocation Program.

“With today being the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and the first day of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, I want to commend Central West Women Health Centre for the work they do to provide a safe space for and support women escaping domestic and family violence.”

Minister Regional Health Ryan Park said Women’s Health Centre are crucial to supporting some of the most vulnerable and at-risk members of our communities across NSW.

“Women’s Health Centres provide vital support to those escaping domestic and family violence, from lower socio-economic backgrounds and in regional and remote areas,” Minister Park said.

“Centres like this are vital to providing support to women who may fall through the cracks of the health system.

“I’ve said many times, one of my priorities as Minister for Health is to improve access and remove barriers women face in accessing healthcare services.”

Stephen Lawrence MLC said funding under the Local Small Commitments Allocation Program allowed great local organisations to fund much needed initiatives, such as the Central West Women’s Health Centre’s Place2Be Safe project.

“Central West Women’s Health Centre has been serving the Bathurst community for 37 years and are trusted by women in the area for the support and programs they provide,” Mr Lawrence said.

Central West Women’s Health Centre General Manager Karen Boyde said the funding would allow them to introduce much-needed specialised case management services.

“There is a gap in the availability of domestic and family violence case management services in Bathurst. The practical needs of women experiencing, or at risk of domestic and family violence, are often able to be met through case management which can provide immediate support and assisted referral.”

The Local Small Commitments Allocation Program will enhance local communities and provide $400,000 in benefits to people of the 93 NSW electorates. It will consist of over 600 small community projects, ranging from capital works, services and programs, events, supplies and equipment, charitable donations, and playground and park upgrades.

The NSW Government has committed funds to the program which will help small local projects and programs that strengthen communities and provide improvements at a local level, making NSW an even better place to live.

For further information on the Local Small Commitments Allocation Program visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/lsca-home