Women and children fleeing domestic violence in Ipswich will gain ten new safe cottages, funded by a federal government grant to the Domestic Violence Action Centre (DVAC).
A Safe Haven for Vulnerable Women
The DVAC project, supported by the Housing Australia Future Fund’s (HAFF) Crisis and Transitional Accommodation Program, aims to address the critical need for secure housing for those fleeing abusive situations. The organisation recognises that finding safe and stable housing is a key challenge for survivors, and this initiative seeks to offer more than just shelter. It aims to provide a place where women can rebuild their lives, establish security, and plan for the future.
The project’s partnership with Primary Advisory will assist in acquiring land and provide vital expertise in social infrastructure. To protect the residents, the exact location of the cottages will remain confidential.
National Effort to Combat Domestic Violence
The DVAC project is part of a broader national effort, with the Australian government allocating $100 million to 42 projects nationwide. This funding, also through the HAFF Crisis and Transitional Accommodation Program, will create hundreds of new crisis and transitional homes for women and children affected by domestic violence, as well as older women at risk of homelessness.
The government acknowledges the urgent need for such housing, highlighting that many applications were received, demonstrating the scale of the issue. The government stated that the selection process was competitive and focused on projects that demonstrated how they would meet the needs of vulnerable women and children. The government also noted that this investment significantly increases funding for crisis and transitional accommodation compared to the previous decade.
Community Impact and Support
The government stresses that providing safe housing is crucial in enabling women to leave violent relationships. They believe these new homes will empower some of the community’s most vulnerable members, providing them with a secure place to live. The government’s investment in these projects is part of its commitment to ending gender-based violence and addressing housing insecurity.
It also highlights that separate funding for the Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program is already increasing the number of emergency accommodation places available across Australia.
The DVAC project is in its early stages, with the immediate focus on securing suitable land for the cottages. The government recently announced funding for the project, which is expected to progress over the coming months and years.
Published Date 23-Feb-2025