Construction is underway on a new refuge in Maitland LGA to provide women and children escaping domestic and family violence with more access to secure accommodation, as part of the Minns Labor Government's efforts to build a safer New South Wales for victim-survivors.
Housing Plus is developing the refuge, with specialist support services to be delivered onsite by Carrie's Place Domestic Violence and Homelessness Services once the project is complete.
Under the NSW Government's Core and Cluster program, Housing Plus has been awarded $6.4 million to deliver the refuge, which will provide eight units of crisis accommodation for women and children leaving violence.
The project will include a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units designed to support different household types. One unit will be wheelchair accessible, and the shared areas will also be accessible for residents with restricted mobility.
Each unit will be fully self-contained, featuring its own kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities, private outdoor space and an area for pets.
The refuge will feature indoor and outdoor play spaces for children, as well as designated areas for communal activities.
This investment forms part of the NSW Government's $426.6 million Core and Cluster program to expand crisis accommodation and provide on-site specialist support for women and children fleeing violence.
Once complete, the program will support more than 2,900 additional victim-survivors of domestic and family violence each year.
The initiative also contributes to the Minns Government's broader response to domestic and family violence, including an historic $6.6 billion investment in social and affordable housing, with at least half the new homes prioritised for victim-survivors.
It also includes actions to address domestic, family and sexual violence from all angles, such as expanding frontline support services, holding perpetrators to account, early intervention and primary prevention.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson said:
"Domestic and family violence remains one of the leading causes of homelessness in NSW and that's why we're investing in purpose-built refuge accommodation so when someone makes the courageous decision to leave violence, they can be certain there's a safe place to turn when they need it most.
"No one should have to choose between staying in danger or facing homelessness. These refuges offer far more than a roof over someone's head, they're spaces designed to provide privacy, independence and specialist support in one place.
"Once built, this refuge in Maitland will be a safe place for women with or without children to rebuild their lives and live free from abuse."
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison said:
"This new Core and Cluster refuge in Maitland will give families a secure place to stay while they receive the specialist support they need to rebuild their lives.
"Importantly, women and children can access tailored support services onsite, in a safe and purpose-built environment designed to meet their needs.
"By working with organisations like Housing Plus and Carrie's Place, we are ensuring women and children leaving violence have access to safe accommodation and the support services they deserve."
Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison said:
"A safe place to stay is about so much more than a bed and four walls. It can be the turning point that gives someone the space, dignity and strength to leave violence behind.
"For many women and children, refuges like this are more than accommodation, they are a lifeline - a chance to catch their breath, feel safe, and begin to rebuild.
"As the local member, my community has been crying out for these services for over a decade. I know how vital they are for communities, and I'm incredibly proud to see this refuge being delivered in Maitland to support those who need it most.
"Domestic and family violence remains a significant issue in Maitland, with Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) data showing domestic violence-related assault charges have increased by 3.6% and sexual assault charges by 14.3% in the last decade. A clear reminder of why investment in refuges like this is so critical."
Acting CEO of Housing Plus Group, Maria Woods said:
"The commencement of construction on this state-of-the-art emergency accommodation marks an exciting milestone for our organisation and the Maitland community.
"The Core and Cluster model offers an innovative approach to independent living while ensuring access to vital support services, and we are proud to be leading the way in creating a safe and welcoming space for women and children.
"Our partnership with Carrie's Place brings together our design and construction expertise with their deep local experience in service delivery, and we look forward to opening the doors together in 2027."
CEO of Carrie's Place, Jayne Clowes said:
"This Specialist Accommodation represents hope, safety, and a pathway forward for women and children experiencing violence.
"Demand for crisis accommodation continues to rise, and this purpose‑built facility will help ensure that families in danger have somewhere safe to turn.
"We are proud to be partnering with the NSW Government and Housing Plus on this essential project."
Support:
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.
For information on Men's Behaviour Change Programs operating in your local area, contact the Men's Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
