The NSW State Government has announced plans to establish ten new refuges for women and children escaping domestic violence in regional areas, with Glen Innes among the selected locations.
The refuges are part of the latest round of the government’s Core and Cluster program, which has received an $83.4 million investment. This initiative aims to provide safe and supportive accommodation for more than 500 women and children each year who are fleeing domestic and family violence.
Glen Innes is one of ten regional areas chosen based on community need. The other locations include Wingecarribee, Wollongong, Goulburn-Mulwaree, the Central Coast, Coonamble Shire, Clarence Valley, Walgett Shire, Lake Macquarie, and Wollondilly.
This marks the third round of the Core and Cluster program, which has already delivered 39 refuges across New South Wales. The model focuses on promoting independent living by offering self-contained accommodation alongside a ‘core’ of support that facilitates access to services such as counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support.
Four of the ten new projects will be led by Aboriginal organisations to ensure culturally appropriate housing and support for Indigenous women and children affected by family violence.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said “Women and children leaving violent family relationships need a safe place to go, and no one should fall through the cracks because of their postcode.
“This latest funding will provide 10 new refuges, mostly in regional areas, which will be open and ready to house up to 500 vulnerable women and children by the end of 2026”
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 on 13 92 76.
