Housing project to help domestic violence survivors secure rental
Some families flee domestic violence with just the clothes on their back. Now they have a place to call home.
A newly-built unit complex for domestic violence survivors has been completed to help families secure affordable rental accommodations. SunnyKids, a Queensland charity, has constructed six townhouses that will be leased to women and their children at a significantly reduced rate for up to two years. Kathleen Hope, SunnyKids CEO, has been working with survivors for 15 years and understands the challenges they face in starting anew.
The crisis of housing affordability and availability, along with the high costs in the Sunshine Coast area, have made it nearly impossible for survivors to find a rental under such circumstances. The fully furnished townhouses include bed linen and washers, aiming to provide a fresh start for those who have suffered too much trauma.
The project's funding was a community effort, with over 70 local businesses, tradespeople, and suppliers donating their time, materials, and services. The land and funding for three townhouses were donated by Peter and Ann Smales from Firefly Education. Real estate agency principal Jodi Price will manage the townhouses, offering tenants a proper rental history, routine inspections, and support in becoming good tenants.
Affordable rentals on the Sunshine Coast typically attract 30 to 50 applicants and average $700 to $800 per week. Hope believes this model can be replicated elsewhere, as the community has shown great support in addressing the pressing issue of domestic violence survivors' needs.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
