Sutherland Shire has a new refuge for women and their children fleeing domestic violence, or in need of a temporary home for other reasons.
Platform Nine, which is operated by Kingsway Community Church, has relocated to the shire from previous premises at Carss Park.
The facility will provide a safe place of transition for up to three months for victims of domestic violence and their children, as well as women experiencing the impacts of family breakdown or homelessness due to other reasons.
Miranda MP Eleni Petinos said at the official opening Platform Nine was “so much more than a bed”.
“It’s a home away from home offering a place to belong and prepare for a new beginning,” she said.
Ms Petinos said the state government contributed almost $40,000 to assist in repaying costs incurred to establish the domestic violence response enhancement service.
Services include after hours domestic and family violence support, supported temporary accommodation and crisis accommodation.
The facility has 23 rooms with the ability to house up to 50 women or women with children.
Kingsway Community Church says, over the last three years, Platform Nine has housed 365 people with a 96 per cent success rate of longer term housing in the St George area.
More information: Phone 0414 899 055 or visit: kingsway.org.au/community-care/platform-nine
