Women at risk of homelessness across the Illawarra are receiving practical, life-changing support thanks to a $200,000 grant from Bendigo Bank’s Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong, enabling the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre to deliver a targeted homelessness prevention program.
The funding has allowed the Centre to employ a dedicated case worker and provide brokerage support to women experiencing financial hardship, family and domestic violence, and housing insecurity.
The brokerage program is designed to help women either safely remain in their current housing or establish a secure new home. Support can include assistance with rent arrears, utility bills, removalist costs, storage, security measures, furniture, essential household items and other practical needs that can make the difference between housing stability and homelessness.
Emily Wright, Acting Team Leader, Case Work at the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre, said the program fills a critical gap in support services for women facing crisis.
“Traditionally, this isn’t a space the Women’s Health Centre has been able to play in, so having access to brokerage funding has been incredible,” Ms Wright said.
“We’ve been able to provide things like personal alarms, security cameras, removalist services and help with bills almost immediately when women need them. For many women, those practical supports are the difference between staying safe and becoming homeless.”
The program has particularly highlighted the growing number of older women experiencing housing insecurity.
“Women over 55 are absolutely one of the fastest-growing groups we’re seeing at risk of homelessness,” Ms Wright said.
“Often there’s an expectation that women in that age group have financial resources or support networks, but many have become isolated or have had their lives turned upside down by domestic and family violence.”
The brokerage funding is provided as part of a broader case management plan, ensuring women receive ongoing support to achieve sustainable, long-term outcomes.
“We’re trying to be really thoughtful about how we use the funding so it creates meaningful change,” Ms Wright said.
“It’s not about a one-off handout; it’s about helping women rebuild their lives and create lasting safety and stability.”
Women seeking support can contact the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre to discuss available services and referral pathways.