7 March 2007
AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AND A REFUGE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Australia’s assistance to Solomon Islands has a strong focus on women and we welcome this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations.
The Australian High Commission looks forward to sharing this important day with Solomon Islands women, recognising their achievements and their contribution to Solomon Islands society.
The theme of International Women’s Day 2007 is refusing to ignore violence against women. Consistent with this, the Australia High Commission is pleased to be able to announce its support to the Christian Care Centre, a domestic violence refuge for women and children supported by the Church of Melanesia.
The Christian Care Centre is the only refuge for victims of violence or abuse in the Solomon Islands. It was opened in March 2005 and was the vision of the late Sister Lillian Maeva who recognised the need for a place where women and children could turn for counselling and protection following abuse.
Speaking with the Sisters from the Christian Care Centre this week about the work of the Centre, Third Secretary of the Australian High Commission, Gabrielle Stewart, said it was very inspiring to see this much needed assistance and support being provided to women and children by the Christian Care Centre.
The Centre has faced significant logistical constraints. A lack of electricity has been a major difficulty for the Centre particularly as women and children arrive at the Centre in the middle of the night seeking counselling and medical assistance. It is for this reason that the Christian Care Centre applied to the Australian Government’s Direct Aid Program for funding for solar panels. Sister Jeni from the Sisters of Melanesia said the solar panels funded by the Australian Government will be a great help.
Australia’s Direct Aid Program aims to support sustainable small projects throughout Solomon Islands. Communities can apply by filling out an application form available at the Australian High Commission in Honiara.