Earlier this month, Anglicare CEO Trevor Ament officially opened Anglicare’s new Domestic and Family Violence home in Wagga Wagga, surrounded by the staff, supporters, and local businesses whose contributions made the project possible.

The building, which was generously donated to Anglicare from a long-standing, faith-based community partner, has undergone a significant transformation over the past year thanks to funding from the Department of Social Services Housing Australia Future Fund, Crisis and Transitional Accommodation Program.

Designed as a culturally safe, secure, and independent living environment, the home provides essential housing to women and children escaping family and domestic violence.

Speaking at the opening, Anglicare’s Senior Manager Child, Youth, Family and Health, Jasmine Woodland said, “[The home]…stands as more than a beautifully renovated house. It is a place of hope, safety and new beginnings. It will provide women and children fleeing family and domestic violence with a secure place to heal, rebuild their lives, and be empowered for a brighter future.”

In addition to a safe place to live, the Anglicare team support residents with case management, financial counselling, early learning and playgroup programs, and referrals to appropriate services. This wrap-around care improves long-term outcomes by helping participants build their skills, confidence, and self-efficacy.

Jasmine went on to thank those involved in the project, including many local businesses for their efforts on the refurbishment.

Unfortunately, affordable housing is in critically short supply across Australia and remains out of reach for many people on low incomes. For women and children escaping domestic and family violence, the challenge of finding safe and stable accommodation can be complex and, at times, overwhelming. At Anglicare, we are committed to helping as many people as possible secure safe housing, and are pleased to be able to offer another safe housing option in the Riverina region.

Anglicare provides domestic and family violence housing services in Goulburn, Yass, and Wagga Wagga. To learn more, visit our Housing and Homelessness webpage or contact us on 02 6245 7100.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, support is available. If risk is immediate, call 000 for Police and Ambulance assistance. For confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.