WA launches initiative to help women access health and legal services

The WA government has announced that a trial to integrate legal services with women's health services will be rolled out in Kalgoorlie and Northbridge to support women who have experienced family and domestic violence.

The pilot program aims to offer comprehensive assistance to women who have endured family and domestic violence. Supported by a substantial $360,000 grant, the Women's Legal Service WA (WLSWA) Health Partnership is pioneering the program to support women in need by providing women with wraparound health and legal services all in one safe space. The program seeks to create a safe and culturally sensitive environment where women can seek the help they need.

The innovative collaboration between health professionals and legal experts is designed to address the unique challenges women face experiencing domestic and family violence. The program aims to help clinicians identify and respond to women experiencing violence and make specialist legal services more accessible to those who would otherwise not access this information and assistance.

Two key sites have been selected for the pilot project--Women's Health and Family Services in Northbridge and the Goldfields Women's Health Care Centre in Kalgoorlie. These locations are strategically chosen to integrate legal, physical, psychosocial, and other health-related matters seamlessly. The government funds the initiative through WA Health and in partnership with WLSWA.

The pilot initiative aligns with broader health and safety goals, as outlined in the Sustainable Health Review, which aims to deliver person-centred, equitable and seamless access to healthcare.

Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson stated, "This service will offer a wide range of services to support vulnerable women in our community. Helping women move forward from the trauma associated with family and domestic violence is a priority for the State Government." She emphasized that offering these services in familiar and safe spaces will enhance access and continuity of care.

Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Sabine Winton echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of eliminating barriers for those seeking help. "Being able to access legal assistance and health services in the one place is so important for victim-survivors to not only escape family and domestic violence but also help them to rebuild their lives."

This initiative aligns with various national strategies to address violence against women, youth justice, and family and domestic violence reduction. The pilot will focus on providing services to various groups, including women and families, remote and rural communities and culturally and linguistically people.