New $7.2m haven for women and children fleeing domestic violence
Port Stephens Examiner – January 31 2025 – 5:40pm
Construction has begun on a $7.2-million haven for women and children in Port Stephens fleeing domestic and sexual abuse.
The six-unit refuge will be built in Raymond Terrace under the NSW government’s Core and Cluster program.
The Core and Cluster refuge model promotes independent living by providing self-contained accommodation next to a ‘core’ of support, offering access to services such as counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support.
Families and Communities Minister and Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said the new refuge would be life-changing for local women and children, giving them a safe and secure place to begin rebuilding their lives after trauma.
“For too long, women and children in our community have had to leave behind their jobs, schools, and support networks to find safety,” Ms Washington said.
“This refuge means they will now have access to the crisis accommodation and support they need, right here in Port Stephens.”
Hume Community Housing will build the project, and Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services will provide the service, delivering tailored support services to victim-survivors to help them rebuild their lives.
Domestic Violence Prevention Minister and Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said across the state a total of 49 new refuges would be up and running by 2026.
“For women and children escaping abusive and violent homes, having a safe haven is vital to begin recovering, healing and rebuilding their lives,” Ms Harrison said.
