Leading non-profit congratulates incoming state government

Non-profit organisation SSI congratulates the incoming Minns Government on its success following Saturday’s NSW state election.

SSI Acting CEO Sonia Vignjevic said pre-election commitments from the NSW Labor Party will bring about changes to enhance support for social service providers and the individuals and families they support.

“In particular, we look forward to partnering with the incoming government to enhance domestic and violence (DFV) support for women and children from migrant and refugee backgrounds,” she said.

Ms Vignjevic said SSI looked forward to seeing the implementation of NSW Labor’s pre-election commitment of $7 million in funding to support migrant and refugee women and children experiencing DFV, including the provision of specialist multicultural services in south-west Sydney run by SSI.

“All communities experience DFV, but refugee and migrant communities face unique barriers that mean they often struggle to access mainstream DFV services,” Ms Vignjevic said.

“This additional funding will stop at-risk women and children from slipping through the cracks.”

Ms Vignjevic said another positive change for the social services sector would stem from the pre-election commitment to increase funding terms to five years – offering continuity and stability to both social services organisations and the people they support.

“This policy provides additional security to our sector and will ensure our core focus remains where it should: on delivering quality services to the individuals and families we support,” she said.

Ms Vignjevic acknowledged the efforts of the outgoing government to support migrant and refugee communities in NSW, including through initiatives such as the Refugee Employment Support Program (RESP).

“Through RESP, NSW has led the country in responding to the unique needs of jobseekers with experiences of forced displacement, offering tailored support to ensure refugees and people seeking asylum have access to sustainable employment opportunities,” she said.

Ms Vignjevic said SSI looked forward to continuing its strong working relationship with government with the incoming Minns Government.

Media enquiries:

Hannah Gartrell, Head of Executive Communications and Media

M: 0423 965 956 E: hgartrell@ssi.org.au