Women and children fleeing domestic violence are to have access to safe and affordable housing with the State to provide 68 additional homes for women who have escaped an abuser.
Announcing the new homes, Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Natalie Ward said it was vital that 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 were being delivered under the Community Housing Innovation Fund (CHIF), a partnership with the community housing sector to provide more social and affordable housing.
Mrs Maclaren-Jones said the 68 additional homes included 21 apartments in Guildford, acquired in December 2021; eight apartments in Canterbury, expected to be available in April; 16 apartments in the Campsie area, available in September; four townhouses in Wagga Wagga, due for completion in the first half of 2023; four apartments in Goulburn, due for completion in the second half of 2023; and 15 apartments in Unanderra, expected late next year.
She said victim-survivors of domestic violence who needed a new home were added to the NSW Housing Register.
“Community housing organisations then use the Register to offer long-term housing when a suitable property becomes available,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
