Griffith has been chosen as one of three locations across the state that will soon include independent living units, as well as its existing communal living facilities. 

The pilot program is aimed at providing families with a greater sense of independence and more privacy. 

CEO of Linking Communities Network Yvonne Wilson said the pilot program grew out of recommendations handed down by a Victorian Royal Commission into domestic violence some years ago. 

“This actually came about as a result of the royal commission in Victoria. They found within women's refuges women would most likely from semi-independent living,” Ms Wilson said. 

“The recommendation was then handed to the NSW government who decided to look into taking it on board.”

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According to White Ribbon Australia, one in three women will be exposed to physical or sexual violence within their lifetime, while one in four children will be exposed to domestic violence. 

The two bedroom-units will be freestanding, but allows occupants to continue to connect with Linking Communities services. 

“They'll be semi-independent even though they'll be on the ground They will have support and case management from the staff. It's the best of both worlds,” she said.

“Families can stay for up to three months. It allows them to get used to living independently with their children before they move back into the community.”

The Griffith site joins Oranga and Moruya as part of a $4 million investment. Accommodation will also be accessible for people with disabilities. 

Ms Wilson said the units allow for a sense of normalcy for children and their mothers. 

“It allows for women and families who stay with us to feel as though their lives are not slipping away from them. It's not internal or communal living. We lobbied to be successful for that pilot to go ahead … the project been a while evolving. It's almost started and is due for completion next October,” she said. 

“It'll be beneficial for children to have a home of their own that it's not communal, even though the communal model works well also. They enjoy each other's company and get a bit of peer support.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, please contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Griffith women’s refuge on (02) 6964 3381

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