Women and families fleeing domestic violence will soon be able to bring their pets along with them.
A new women’s refuge is set to provide vital support for women and families escaping domestic and family violence in Western Sydney.
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The refuge, expected to be operational by November, will contribute to increasing the number of available crisis accommodation sites for women in the region to nine.
On today’s episode of This Arvo in Sydney, we talked to Rose Jackson, Minister for Housing and Homelessness, to find out more details on this new scheme.
Ms Jackson said this initiative was part of the NSW Government’s efforts to address the pressing issue of domestic violence and provide safe havens for those in need.
With $426 million from the state government, the refuge will consist of 11 units, supporting more than 2,900 women and their children annually.
“We know that so many women stay in a violent relationship because they don’t feel as though they have somewhere to go safe and secure and supported to go,” Ms Jackson said.
The project is a collaboration between community housing provider Evolve Housing, Women’s Community Shelters, and Parramatta Women’s Shelter.
Once completed, the new refuge will have a mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom self-contained units, which will have individual entrances, private courtyards, and access for animals.
This project aims to break the cycle of violence and empower survivors to reclaim control of their lives.
“Pets are part of families, and women will not leave if they can’t take their beloved dog or cat with them, so pet-friendly shelters are actually incredibly important.”
If you’re in need of urgent housing assistance- you can call Link2Home’s Domestic Violence Line- which is 1800 656 463.
Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
Hosted by Sacha Barbour, This Arvo in Sydney is a 10 to 12 minute daily news podcast made just for Sydney! Listen now on the Listnr app.