$5 million towards safe haven for children

Saturday, 30 September 2023

The NSW Government is investing $5 million over four years to support children and young people who have lost loved ones through homicide.

Grace’s Place is the world’s first residential trauma recovery centre providing tailored support for children impacted by violent crime.

It was named in honour of the late Grace Lynch, who became a strong voice for victims of crime following the murder of her daughter Anita Cobby.

Based in Doonside in western Sydney, Grace’s Place provides accommodation, counselling, and support for up to 12 children and their carers from NSW and across Australia.

Grace’s Place is managed by the Homicide Victims Support Group (HVSG), a critical service providing information and training to the public, police and professional bodies about what is required to support the needs of family members affected by homicide.

Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“Grace’s Place is leading the nation, caring for children and young people who've seen the worst of humanity.

"Children who've lost a parent in the most horrific circumstances need intensive, holistic support and care.

"The NSW Government is backing Grace’s Place so traumatised children and young people get the support they need to heal and have hope for a brighter future.”

Homicide Victims Support Group Executive Director Martha Jabour said:

“Grace’s Place will be available for family members and their children 24/7. No longer will police from the NSW Police Force have to find a place of respite and security for children at a crime scene. A phone call will allow us to look after the children left behind after these horrific crimes to get assistance in a safe and caring environment.

“Grace’s Place will be a beacon of hope for children confronting the horrors of homicide.

“Children who come to Grace’s Place will get help in dealing with the violence they have seen, heard, and felt. We will be able to help them process the death of someone they love in a domestic homicide surrounded by counsellors, support staff and their families.

“We are so pleased that the Government is helping us to make such a difference to the survival of children from a very young age. We will have specific programs, therapy strategies and counselling programs to help children from the ages of 3 to 18 years of age.

“NSW leads the way in helping children impacted by the horror of homicide, children from all over Australia are welcomed to come to Grace’s Place for assistance.”

MP for Blacktown, Stephen Bali said:

“Children impacted by the loss of a parent in tragic circumstances need a trauma focused approach to support and care.”

“Grace’s Place, through the dedication and vision of Martha Jabour, provide innovative and valuable care and support.”

“I applaud the Minister and the NSW Government for their investment and for supporting these children and young people.”