WILLIAMSON WELCOMES MUCH-NEEDED DOMESTIC VIOLENCE REFUGE FOR CLARENCE VALLEY

Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has today welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of a $5.5 million investment to build a new crisis refuge in the Clarence Valley, providing essential support for women and children fleeing domestic and family violence.

“This is a much-needed investment for our community, and I welcome it wholeheartedly,” Mr Williamson said.

“Far too often, people escaping violence in regional areas are forced to choose between danger and homelessness. That is unacceptable — and this new refuge will make a real difference.”

The refuge will be delivered by trusted local service provider Momentum Collective, and is expected to open in 2026. It will include up to six self-contained units designed to offer victim-survivors independence, privacy, and the dignity they deserve — including the ability to bring family pets, which can often be a barrier to seeking safety.

The facility will follow the Core and Cluster model, with a central ‘core’ area offering support services, private counselling rooms, spaces for children, and culturally appropriate designs that reflect and respect the needs of Aboriginal women and children in particular.

The project will be delivered in partnership with Aboriginal-led organisation Gurehlgam, ensuring it reflects the needs and voices of the local community.

“This is more than just bricks and mortar — this is about healing, hope and safety,” Mr Williamson said.

“I commend Momentum Collective and their partners for their culturally safe, community-led approach. It’s about supporting women and children to rebuild their lives close to home and community.”

Mr Williamson said the announcement recognises the acute need for crisis accommodation in regional and rural areas like the Clarence Valley.

“I’ve spoken with local service providers and frontline workers who have been crying out for support like this — it’s something I’ve strongly advocated for and I’ll keep doing so. Every woman and child deserves a safe place to go.”

The facility is part of the NSW Government’s broader $426.6 million Core and Cluster program, which will deliver new refuges across the state to support over 2,900 additional victim-survivors each year.

“This is a step in the right direction. Domestic and family violence does not discriminate — and we must do all we can to ensure our community stands ready to help those in need,” Mr Williamson said.