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ABC News
an hour ago
- ABC News
The 'village' creating safe havens for women, children fleeing domestic and family violence
For this mother and her two children who have farewelled a nearby refuge for their fresh start, they won't be walking into a barren home. It will be a sanctuary designed down to the finest detail for this Sydney trio who fled domestic and family violence. For the volunteers who have transformed the space within four hours, all they were told is this mother, 28, loves the colours black and green and finds peace in reading. Her daughter, seven, loves black and pink and enjoys craft and Hello Kitty toys. The son, five, loves black and red, Pokémon and gaming. For many in this predicament, they have left their former home with little more than the clothes on their backs, in search of safety. This home is just one of approximately 10 being decorated this week for a victim-survivor in Australia. The volunteers step in quietly and quickly to furnish the empty properties, converting them into fully functioning homes. Many leave with tears in their eyes. The RizeUp Homes program furnishes homes for those transitioning out of crisis situations across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. For victim-survivors who have acquired a home via public housing, private rental or another option, RizeUp works with various organisations and governing bodies to turn these bare spaces into welcoming environments. It isn't just basic necessities like a bed and dining table — each set up is personalised. Specialist domestic and family violence services then assist in providing crisis support, case management and safety planning to the person or people in need. "We place the victim-survivor at the centre of every decision, especially when children are involved," said Ms Edwards. "We listen to what matters to them — their favourite colours, hobbies, the things that make them feel seen and safe — and we thoughtfully tailor each room so it reflects who they are. Whether it's a Paw Patrol doona cover or a desk to do schoolwork." It takes approximately $6,500 — via donations — to furnish each house, with more than 3,200 homes furnished over the years. For the RizeUp team who watch their volunteers set up the homes, from putting together flat-pack furniture to fluffing a smiley face pillow on a child's new bed, it is clear how moved they are. "Behind each of those homes is a real story. A mother longing for a moment of peace. A child who has seen too much," said Ms Edwards. "These aren't just numbers — they're families with hopes, fears and futures that deserve to be free from violence." Almost a decade ago, Margie* walked into her safe haven for the first time. Reflecting on that moment makes her emotional. In Margie's former marriage, there was a history of verbal, emotional, psychological and later physical abuse. Her catalyst for leaving was seeing the impact on her eldest child, who was experiencing "night terrors". With her three kids in tow and just one travel case, Margie sought the help of a domestic violence organisation in her local region. "They told me there was a charity that could help me restart, because when I left, I left with nothing." Upon entering her newly furnished home, one of her child's bedrooms was abundant with plush toys, another had a doll house and princess costumes. A bassinet lay in the corner of Margie's beautifully decorated bedroom. On the dining room table was a fruit bowl, with a handwritten sign that read: "Welcome home!" "It felt like, 'Wow, someone actually cares and believes in me'," she said. Chief executive officer of Domestic Violence NSW, Delia Donovan, said the state's wider housing system struggles to meet the needs of victim-survivors. "Women and their children are often expected to leave crisis accommodation after just three months, yet pathways into safe, stable housing are scarce and difficult to navigate. "Transitional housing is severely limited, social housing waitlists are over 10 years in some places and eligibility criteria is rigid." Ms Donovan acknowledged the impact of the cost of living crisis and restrictions with temporary visas. "Without long-term, stable housing options and properly funded wraparound support — including case management, legal help and trauma-informed care — there is no safe pathway forward," she said, urging for more government funding. With RizeUp's fundraising gala ball on August 2, Ms Edwards said it is a special time to reflect on their 10th anniversary and the "generosity of our village". "Every donation — no matter the size — helps us continue our work," she said. "It's a safe bed where new dreams can be made. A dining table to share the simple joys of connection. A pantry full of ingredients to nourish the soul. "To help create a space that says, 'You're safe now, you matter, you're not alone.' That's an extraordinary privilege." Ultimately, the ripple effect of support is lasting, noted Margie. "I couldn't have set up a new life the way I have without a helping hand. "I've got a new husband, who's so supportive and loving and extra kids to add to the mix." Now with her lived-experience at hand, Margie is helping other victim-survivors with post-traumatic growth. "You might feel isolated, but there are services and survivors on the other side that hear you." *Names have been changed for safety reasons.
SBS Australia
9 hours ago
- SBS Australia
Homeschool: The Changes
Independent news and stories connecting you to life in Australia and Indonesian-speaking Australians. Ease into the English language and Australian culture. We make learning English convenient, fun and practical.
ABC News
9 hours ago
- ABC News
Media Watch: Monday 28/7/2025
ABC iview Home Watch all your favourite ABC programs on ABC iview. More from ABC We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.
