The NSW Government has invested $5.3 million in The Orchard Dubbo, a new Core and Cluster refuge for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
Under the Core and Cluster program, the NSW Government is investing $426.6 million over four years to provide new crisis accommodation across NSW for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.
In addition, the 2024-25 NSW Budget has committed $5.1 billion to new social housing, with 50 per cent prioritised for domestic violence victim-survivors.
The Orchard Dubbo comprises 4 self-contained homes that promote secure independent living around a ‘core’ of on-site support services, such as safety planning, legal advice and ADVO support, parenting programs and referrals to local services.
Aboriginal residents will also have access to an Aboriginal domestic and family violence specialist worker.
Community Housing Provider Housing Plus has delivered the refuge, with specialist support services to be provided by Plus Community and the Western Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service.
The Orchard Dubbo is one of 26 Core and Cluster refuges in regional NSW.
Once all Core and Cluster refuges come online, they will support an additional 2,900 women and children escaping domestic and family violence each year.
The NSW Government is acting to reduce domestic and family violence in the state with a $245.6 million package that focuses on crisis response, early intervention and prevention, so women and children can feel safe at home and in the community.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:
“Family and domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness. No woman should have to choose between staying in a violent relationship or becoming homeless.
“Experiencing violence can significantly impact a woman’s financial security and access to stable housing.
“This refuge will help victim-survivors feel safe and supported as they leave abusive relationships, and provide a secure place to heal before moving into stable accommodation.”
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:
“The NSW Government is supporting women and children leaving domestic and family violence and making sure they have access to the services they need, particularly in regional and rural areas.
“Refuges like The Orchard are crucial in helping women and children take their first step towards escaping violence.
“The innovative Core and Cluster model will help women and children feel safe and supported while they rebuild their lives in their community.”
The Orchard’s Manager Rebecca Bohun said:
“The Orchard provides an important option for victim survivors to stay in their community, where they have established support networks including family, friends, and services, ensuring they can continue existing employment and education.
“Once a family is safely accommodated at The Orchard, they remain with us until they are supported to access safe, affordable long-term accommodation.”
