A new seven-storey building in Adelaide's Central Business District (CBD) aims to provide crucial support for survivors of family and domestic violence. The development, which consists of 24 apartments, was inaugurated recently and marks a significant step in affordable housing solutions in South Australia. With rental rates set at 75% of the market rate, the apartments will serve as long-term rental accommodation for eligible individuals who struggle to find affordable housing in the private market but do not qualify for public housing.
The $15.7 million project, led by the YWCA and supported by a $5 million no-interest loan from the South Australian government, seeks to bridge the gap in housing affordability. The initiative specifically targets survivors of domestic violence, ensuring they have access to secure and stable accommodation while they rebuild their lives. Prospective tenants must pass income tests to qualify for a lease, with priority given to those affected by domestic violence.
Premier Peter Malinauskas highlighted the project's unique approach to affordable housing in the state. Unlike traditional government-supported housing, which is often associated with low-roofed, high-density environments in suburban areas, this development is centrally located in Adelaide’s CBD, offering a more integrated and accessible living solution.
A New Beginning for Survivors
At the opening ceremony, Kiran, a survivor of family and domestic violence, shared her personal story and emphasized the importance of such developments. After spending two years in precarious housing situations, moving between eight different homes in just one year, Kiran found stability and empowerment through access to secure accommodation.
"I didn't have any money to buy my own food… Then I decided, everything in my life is going wrong but I can't take this on me, so I decided I am going to advocate for myself and I am going to make change in my life." – Kiran
Kiran expressed hope that the new apartments would provide similar opportunities for other women facing domestic violence. She envisions these homes as stepping stones for residents to rebuild their lives before moving on, creating space for others in need.
Addressing a Critical Need
YWCA board chair Helen Conway underscored the pressing need for safe and secure housing tailored specifically for women. Many women working essential service jobs often fall into a housing affordability gap; they earn too much to qualify for social housing yet cannot afford market rent.
"We know women have very specific needs for safe and secure housing… They can't afford market rent but they don't also qualify for social housing so there's this gap." – Helen Conway
The YWCA's project not only addresses this gap but also serves as part of a broader initiative to expand affordable housing solutions across the country. By providing long-term accommodation options within the city center, the development aims to foster community integration and accessibility for its residents.
Government Support and Community Impact
The South Australian government's financial backing through a $5 million no-interest loan illustrates its commitment to innovative housing solutions. This partnership with the YWCA highlights a progressive approach to addressing complex social issues such as domestic violence and housing insecurity.
Kiran’s testimony and the presence of supportive leaders at the opening ceremony underscore the potential impact of this project. With well-planned initiatives like this, survivors of domestic violence can look forward to rebuilding their lives in a supportive environment.
"Once I think women there build their life, they want to move out, they want to free this space for other people and then other people get in and rebuild their life." – Kiran
