The first 68 extra homes for women who have escaped abusive relationships are being delivered by the NSW Government, as part of a landmark $484.3 million investment to support women and children fleeing domestic violence.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said a key component of the government’s record package was boosting the number of community housing residences available to women and children impacted by domestic violence.
“Many domestic violence victim-survivors find themselves displaced and in need of a new home. These additional dwellings – including the four in Goulburn – will give more victim-survivors a safe haven to begin their new chapter,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said it was vital victim-survivors have access to safe, affordable housing as quickly as possible to help them get back on their feet after their traumatic experiences.
“We’re starting to see the important outcomes from our record commitment through the delivery of these 68 additional homes in Sydney and regional NSW, giving women and children who have suffered domestic violence a place to recover and thrive,” Mrs Ward said.
Minister for Families and Communities Natasha Maclaren-Jones said the projects are being delivered under the Community Housing Innovation Fund (CHIF), a partnership with the community housing sector to provide more social and affordable housing.
“We have committed to invest $52.5 million to provide 200 homes for victim-survivors and we are already delivering the first dwellings,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
This initial $19.1 million CHIF investment includes four apartments in Goulburn being delivered in collaboration with Anglicare NSW South NSW West and ACT and due for completion in the second half of next year.
Women who need a new home because of domestic violence are added to the NSW Housing Register. Community housing organisations then use the Register to offer long-term housing to domestic violence victims when a suitable property becomes available.
WENDY TUCKERMAN 