Construction has begun on two new purpose-built housing developments for women fleeing domestic violence in Sydney’s south and western Sydney, thanks to a $5 million investment by the NSW Government.
Premier Dominic Perrottet and Member for Cronulla Mark Speakman inspected progress on the accommodation today, which will be run by the St Vincent de Paul Society.
“Domestic and sexual violence is abhorrent, insidious and it takes many forms causing hurt and destruction to the lives of those impacted,” Mr Perrottet said.
“The St Vincent de Paul Society – or Vinnie’s – has a long history of helping people in their most difficult times and we are proud to be able to support the work they’re doing in providing shelter for women fleeing domestic violence.
These housing units will give vulnerable women a safe place to call home while they find permanent accommodation and begin to rebuild their lives.”
Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said the one-bedroom units would have individual amenities including kitchenettes and bathrooms and will be pet-friendly. There will also be shared areas including therapy and group session rooms.
“It is so important that women fleeing domestic violence situations have access to purpose-built facilities like these, providing them with the safety and security they need to begin rebuilding their lives,” Mrs Ward said.
Mr Speakman said the crisis accommodation is a much welcomed addition to Sydney’s south.
“It’s crucial that women fleeing domestic violence can access this type of purpose built crisis accommodation and that when they do, they feel safe, secure and supported.” Mr Speakman said.
Richard Stewart, Chair of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Board welcomed the NSW Government’s commitment to building more domestic violence crisis accommodation services.
“The St Vincent de Paul Society helps more than 2,000 women through its domestic violence services every year and we know there are many more seeking assistance to leave abusive partners,” Mr Stewart said.
“Between this service and the new one in Western Sydney, we will be able to provide additional support.”
The NSW Government has committed record funding to support victims of domestic and sexual violence across housing, crisis accommodation, counselling, case management, court advocacy, policing, education and health as we work to reduce this devastating crime.
The 2022-23 NSW Budget included $262.7 million to prevent domestic and family violence, reduce reoffending and support victim safety through the continuation of evidence-based early intervention, victim support and perpetrator interventions.
