Queensland developer Halcyon has officially launched five accommodation units under construction on the northern Gold Coast for women and children recovering from domestic and family violence.
Speaking at today’s launch, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Di Farmer said Halcyon had truly captured the season of giving by donating the $1.2 million house and land package to the DVConnect women’s crisis service.
"The only way we can end domestic and family violence is with the support of the entire community," Ms Farmer said.
"Everyone can do just one thing to help – in this case, Halcyon and Mirvac have done one very big thing, and it really is an example of the kind of generosity that Queenslanders are known for.
"This bridging accommodation project shows the fantastic outcomes that can be achieved when the corporate sector supports community organisations like DVConnect, to achieve real outcomes for Queensland families rebuilding their lives after experiencing DFV.
"I want to offer a big thank you to Halcyon, their shareholders Mirvac and the many other suppliers and tradespeople who are and will be part of this project, for stepping up to be part of the solution for the Gold Coast community."
Ms Farmer said she looked forward to visiting the completed building mid-next year which will be fully fitted and furnished for families needing transitional accommodation.
"The shelter is a stepping stone for families who are no longer in crisis but still require a level of security and support from specialist services," she said.
"We provide funding to DVConnect to provide crisis intervention and counselling support, information, advocacy, advice and referral via a state-wide 24 hour helpline for people experiencing, or affected by domestic and family violence," she said.
"In addition to funding crisis services, we are currently building two new shelters in areas of high need on the Gold Coast and Caboolture.
"Having somewhere safe and supportive to go can make all the difference to women wanting to leave a dangerous and violent situation.
"It’s also important to have supports in place to help women transition from crisis accommodation into the next phase of their lives.
"With this project, women on the Gold Coast will have more choice in when, where and how they exit crisis accommodation and their length of stay in the new properties will be between three to 12 months.
Halcyon joint managing director Dr Geissmann said construction of the bridging accommodation was well underway.
"We’re really pleased to be playing a small role in a community initiative that will support so many families," Dr Geissmann said.
"Our collaboration with the property group Mirvac and DVConnect will provide a safe, stable and comfortable environment for women and children leaving domestic violence situations where they can create new life plans."
Dr Geissmann said when completed, tenants will have their own kitchenette, living area and courtyard with a communal kitchen and living room, play area and a residence for an onsite manager.
DVConnect board member Leigh Tabrett said the service would help to reduce pressure on existing accommodation and help reduce the number of women who returned to unsafe situations.
"Women and children who flee their homes because of domestic violence face many challenges," she said.
"The most basic and practical things have been taken from them and they somehow need to create a whole new life, in circumstances where they are suffering complex emotional trauma and loss.
"Rebuilding lives – sorting out financial affairs, establishing a rental history, looking for work, dealing with emotional trauma – takes time.
"Offering this type of bridging accommodation for three to twelve month periods will provide a safe, stable and supportive environment for women and children who are rebuilding their lives.
"In the longer term, for the community as a whole, we hope it will help to reduce the lifetime emotional and financial costs to women and children."
