In a bold step forward for integrated care, Palmerston Association has been awarded the opportunity to lead the development and operation of the state’s newest women’s refuge in Katanning. The announcement marks a significant move towards addressing the complex and interconnected challenges of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use, family and domestic violence (FDV), and mental health, with Palmerston set to deliver trauma-informed support that bridges these critical gaps.
This vital new hub is set to transform the support services available to women and children in the Great Southern. The refuge will offer a safe and supportive environment for those experiencing FDV, while also providing access to critical care for co-occurring AOD and mental health challenges, ensuring a holistic and person-centred approach to recovery.
While Palmerston is well known for its transformative work in the AOD space, the organisation continues to lead from the front in delivering care that recognises the complexity of people’s lives. Palmerston will be supported in its mission of providing holistic treatment and recovery options to the Katanning community by the Kadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation, who are co-funded partners. Together the two organisations will ensure culturally secure, community-led care is at the heart of this new service.
“Many people who come to us are navigating complex and interconnected challenges. Alcohol or other drug use is often just one part of a much bigger story.” said Palmerston CEO Emma Jarvis. “Experiences of mental health distress, trauma, or family and domestic violence are often present. That’s why our approach is about supporting the whole person, walking alongside them as they work through the layers of their experience, rather than focusing solely on the outward symptoms. This ensures our care is both compassionate and comprehensive.”
The new refuge will implement a best-practice, trauma-informed service model that challenges the often fragmented nature of support systems. By integrating care across FDV, AOD and mental health, Palmerston is removing the need for individuals to navigate multiple disconnected systems, and creating a seamless, accessible support network under one roof where Palmerston can walk alongside individuals through every stage of their recovery.
Palmerston is also proud to have a long-standing presence in Katanning, with strong ties to the local community. This local knowledge, coupled with decades of frontline experience places the organisation in an ideal position to ensure the long-term success of this initiative, and deliver meaningful outcomes that empower women and strengthen families located in the Great Southern.
Palmerston would like to thank the Department of Communities for its trust and investment in this critical initiative, and acknowledge the important role that the Kadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation will play in ensuring the refuge is both culturally safe and community led.
“This is about more than crisis accommodation. It’s about connection, safety and long-term healing, creating a space where women and children can begin to rebuild their lives, supported by a team who understands the complexity of their needs.”
For media enquiries, please contact:
Rebecca Stephens
Strageic Advisor – Stakeholder Relations
0415820076
rstepehns@palmerston.org.au
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