Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has announced a national strategy to combat Australia's high level of violence against women, according to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald.
At last count (September 27th) 66 women have been killed by either their partner or an ex this year.
The $100 million package announced by Turnbull includes some great initiatives, however, the package does not contain funding to states for women's shelters.
Shelters are needed - many have closed, leaving some victims with nowhere to go. Homelessness Australia says that every year shelters have to turn away almost 3,000 women fleeing domestic violence.
Across the state of New South Wales, there are just 350 bedrooms in 63 government-owned shelters. A further 12 non-government owned properties help domestic violence victims.
The consequences of the shortfall became apparent in January when 26-year-old Leila Alavi was allegedly murdered by her husband. Refuges had turned her away up to a dozen times.
The women and children of Australia deserve so much better - they deserve refuges! Will you join me in urging the Australian Government to increase funding for women fleeing domestic violence and provide shelters?
Please sign and share the petition.
