WOMEN'S INFORMATION SERVICE

The Hon. CARMEL ZOLLO (14:46): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for the Status of Women a question about the Women's Information Service.

Leave granted.

The Hon. CARMEL ZOLLO: The Women's Information Service (WIS) is a free information referral and support service for the women of South Australia. Assistance is provided in person, over the telephone, through email and on the internet. The service also has an active volunteer program, including the Family Court Support Program. Will the minister provide the chamber with more information about the work volunteers do for the Women's Information Service?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister for the City of Adelaide) (14:46): National Volunteer Week runs from 10 to 16 May. I understand that it is the largest celebration of volunteers and volunteerism in Australia and provides an opportunity to highlight the role of volunteers in our communities. It is there to say thank you to more than 15 million Australians who volunteer.

I am pleased to inform members that the Family Court Support Program run by the Women's Information Service recently celebrated its 200^th case, commencing in 2006. The volunteer program supports women attending the Family Court and the Federal Magistrates Court. This is a really good example of what a fantastic job volunteers do in our community.

The dedicated court support team provides personal support for women at a time of tremendous difficulty. It can also be a very emotional time in their life. Volunteers in this program support women, providing them with confidential emotional support, as well as practical support by explaining court processes and asking questions of solicitors and court personnel. The volunteers can also help with accessing essential services for women, such as secure accommodation, interpreters and child care.

Women travel from all around South Australia to the Family Court in Adelaide. They are often in unfamiliar surroundings and lack the support of family and friends back home. These friendly, reliable volunteers assist women to have the strength and courage to go on.

The Women's Information Service offers assistance and advice on a range of health and wellbeing matters. More than 30 volunteers help around 20,000 women every year at the Women's Information Service in Grenfell Street. The service also provides a telephone link-up for women in regional areas who are able to call toll free and be connected to any Adelaide-based service relating to their health and wellbeing. I urge members to promote the Women's Information Service and encourage women to be volunteers.