A men’s crisis centre proposed for Coen in Queensland’s Far North will progress to the next stage, with the Palaszczuk Government investing $60,000 in the project.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the state would now work with Coen Men’s Group and Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation to start operational planning for the centre.
“I’m proud the Palaszczuk Government is listening to and acting on the needs of our region,” Ms Lui said.
“A centre would prove a valuable asset for Coen, providing mental health support and services, and assistance for men experiencing homelessness.
“It would also act as a safe place if there is risk of domestic or family violence, rather than displacing entire families.
“Additionally, the venue could be used for skills training and educational activities, as well as a secure meeting space for local men to discuss personal and community matters.”
The proposed crisis centre would offer services for local men similar to those provided by the Coen Women’s Support Centre, which is currently run by Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation.
The state government’s local Ministerial Champion, Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick, said the investment follows ongoing consultation with the community.
“The need for a facility like this has been raised with me during previous visits to Coen,” Mr Dick said.
“The Palaszczuk Government helped to deliver a women’s shelter for Coen in 2018, and we’re now working to structure a successful proposal to provide complementary support services to men in the community.”
During this visit to Coen, Ms Lui and Mr Dick also met with first responders who provided frontline support to the community when Cyclone Trevor hit in March.
The Category 3 cyclone brought with it wind gusts of more than 130 km/h and around 300mm of rain, which left the town with no power in its aftermath.
“It was great to meet with the ambulance, police and fire officers who helped the Coen community in a critical time of need,” Mr Dick said.
“Our first responders do vital work, often in very trying conditions, so it’s important they receive the acknowledgement and thanks they so very deserve.”
