Southern Cross Housing is steadfast in its support of the NSW Police White Ribbon Cup initiative, which aims to raise awareness and combat domestic and family violence.

With a robust history of aiding individuals affected by domestic and family violence, Southern Cross Housing dedicates numerous properties as priority housing, serving approximately ten non-profit organisations within the Shoalhaven region. These organisations utilise these properties to aid individuals who have faced, or are currently facing, domestic violence challenges.

Southern Cross Housings involvement in the U/16 White Ribbon Cup, held at Bomaderry Sporting Fields on Tuesday, July 30th, 2024 underscores its commitment to this cause. The event was organised by the South Coast Police District in collaboration with the NRL and various Shoalhaven-based non-profit organisations, aimed to spotlight and oppose domestic and family violence. Students from Nowra, Vincentia, Shoalhaven, and Bomaderry High Schools engaged in the event’s knock-out rugby competition.

As a pillar of the Southern NSW community, Southern Cross Housing’s headquarters are situated in Nowra, with additional offices in Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Bega, and Cooma. Southern Cross Housing oversees community and affordable housing properties, providing homes for over 4,200 individuals with low to moderate incomes.

Southern Cross Housing’s dedication to aiding domestic and family violence victims extends to managing the NSW State Government’s “Start Safely Program” in the Shoalhaven area. This initiative supports individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness due to domestic or family violence.

Through the Start Safely program, Southern Cross Housing offers comprehensive support and rent assistance via a Private Rental subsidy. This subsidy aids individuals fleeing domestic and family violence by providing short to medium-term financial assistance (up to three years) to secure affordable housing in the private rental market.

The NSW State Government’s Start Safely program is a commendable initiative that plays a crucial role in addressing the issue of domestic violence. By providing financial assistance and support to those seeking to escape unsafe domestic situations, the program empowers individuals to secure affordable private housing, thereby offering them a pathway to safety and stability. The importance of such programs cannot be overstated, as they not only provide immediate relief but also contribute to the broader societal change needed to eradicate domestic violence.

For further details regarding these programs, please contact the SCH Access and Demand Team on 1300 757 885.In urgent situations where assistance is required, please call the National Sexual Assault Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737732).