Women's shelter group urges government to unlock 'meanwhile use' housing for domestic violence survivors
ABCAt 70, Marilyn Johnson has experienced multiple abusive partners throughout her life. "Meanwhile use" is the short-term utilisation of a vacant building for social or community needs — the WCS model is used specifically for women fleeing domestic violence or who are at risk of homelessness. Ms Johnson, who is now in a new permanent home, said she would like to see more property owners offer vacant buildings to create "safe havens" like Allawah House and help address the domestic and family violence crisis across the state. Family and domestic violence support services: If you need help immediately call emergency services on triple-0 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732 Women's Crisis Line: 1800 811 811 Men's Referral Service: 1300 766 491 Lifeline: 131 114 Ms Daniel said that according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, more than half the women seeking help are turned away from a crisis shelter due to a lack of beds. Overcoming barriers "Meanwhile use" coordinator Kate Desalvo said an affordable housing model was used to determine how much a woman could contribute to subsidised rent, which varied from site to site.
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