A new emergency refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence is being built in the Newcastle LGA, marking a major step forward in providing safer housing and essential support services.

Home in Place has commenced work on a nine-unit Core and Cluster complex, designed to provide secure accommodation while connecting survivors with crucial support. The site will include a central hub offering counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support, along with a dedicated yarning space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

Home in Place CEO Lyndall Robertshaw emphasised the urgent need for this type of accommodation.

“Too many women remain in dangerous situations because they have nowhere to go. This project is vital in giving them a safe place to escape, heal, and rebuild their lives,” Ms Robertshaw said.

Funded by an $8.97 million investment from the NSW Government, the refuge is part of the broader $426.6 million Core and Cluster program, which aims to support 2,900 women and children across NSW each year. The Newcastle project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Ms Robertshaw acknowledged the NSW Government’s role in making this project a reality.

“Without this funding and support, this project would not have gone ahead. It’s a landmark initiative for Newcastle, and we are incredibly proud to be part of it.”

The complex will feature a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom interconnecting units to accommodate larger families. Shared meeting spaces will allow support services to assist women and children directly on-site, making help more accessible when it’s needed most.

Ministers for Housing and Homelessness, the Prevention of Domestic Violence, and the Hunter all reinforced the importance of these refuges in providing safe, stable housing and integrated support.

Ms Robertshaw emphasised the broader impact of secure housing.

“Safe, appropriate housing is a fundamental human right. Without it, it’s difficult to work, study, raise children, or maintain health and wellbeing,” she said.

With construction now underway, Home in Place remains committed to ensuring that women and children in Newcastle have the safe refuge they deserve.