The Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer will launch the WLST financial counselling program today at our Launceston office.

This program is an extension of the specialist family violence unit funding provided to WLST as part of the Australian Government’s response to rising family violence in our communities.  This extension funding will allow WLST to trial the benefits of providing clients with financial counselling in addition to our legal services, and will offer further practical assistance to women who have experienced family violence.

The CEO of the WLST, Yvette Cehtel, says:

“Financial counselling for women experiencing family violence will create options.

“We know that best practice is about offering a wrap-around service to women who experience trauma and family violence. This means that women who come to us can receive assistance with their legal issues, and where appropriate, will also be referred to our financial counsellors. This will help them make sound financial choices as they navigate separating.

“Financial abuse and the use of money to further control and coerce has received increased attention in the community as awareness grows of this type of abuse. Often clients will not initially realise they are experiencing family violence in the form of financial abuse. However, when we talk with women about the sorts of behaviours in their relationship, financial abuse is commonly a feature.

“We are grateful that the Australian Government has recognised that support services such as WLST are identifying financial abuse more often, and are grateful that the Member for Bass, Bridget Archer, has joined us today to launch our financial counselling program, and for the support she has shown to WLST.”