Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor has encouraged community groups to apply for grants to help reduce violence against women and their children in the community.

Mr Taylor said individual grants of up to $150,000 were available, as part of the Federal Government’s $4 million Building Safe Communities for Women and their Children initiative.

“Local police report alarming rates of domestic violence and support from the community is crucial in tackling this problem.

“Community groups, sporting bodies, youth organisations, schools and faith groups can all play a role in improving safety for women and their children,” Mr Taylor said.

He said innovative, local solutions were being sourced at a community level.

Mr Taylor said projects should focus on local engagement to raise awareness about the impacts of violence against women, working with young people about violence within relationships, or building partnerships to better respond to the needs of women experiencing violence.

“There is a Frequently Asked Questions page on the Department of Social Services website for groups interested in project funding. You have to register first before applying and details are on the website as to what steps you need to take.”

Applications close 2pm AEST Thursday 27 August. More information is available at www.dss.gov.au/grants or phone Mr Taylor’s electorate office on 1300 301 826.

Victims of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault, as well as their family and friends can contact 1800RESPECT or visit www.1800respect.org.au.