A $15.7 million affordable housing development in the heart of Adelaide that prioritises women and families impacted by domestic and family violence has topped out.
Developed by national specialist women’s housing provider YWCA Australia, the 24 long-term, affordable rental apartments will be set over seven floors on Hutt Street, with the tower rising 28 metres.
To mark the milestone, a tree “symbolising growth, strength and longevity of the development’s construction and the community it will serve”, was raised by crane to the top floor.
On track for completion in early 2025, the development of one, two and three- bedroom apartments will become home to up to 57 residents – women and their families – priced out of the rental market.
Priority tenancy will be given to women-led families who have experienced domestic and family violence.
It is the first project of its kind being built by YWCA Australia in South Australia.
The development is being funded by YWCA Australia, with support from the South Australian government via a $5 million no-interest loan.
“We know too many women and gender diverse people in South Australia are struggling to find a secure, affordable home that meets their needs,” YWCA Australia CEO Michelle Phillips said.
Human Services Minister Nat Cook said projects like this “play such an important part in providing safe and affordable rentals for people who need them, in particular for women and children who are leaving a domestic and family violence situation.
“This development will provide a safe and stable environment for women and their children to heal and recover from trauma.
“Without projects like this, vulnerable women may find themselves experiencing homelessness or in unsafe situations.”
Data released by the Australian Institute of Criminology this week showed the number of women killed by an intimate partner over the 2022-23 period increased by 28% to 34.
Homelessness Australia’s Homelessness and domestic and family violence: State of Response report showed that 45% of women and girls seeking help for homelessness are doing so because of family and domestic violence.
Tandem Building project director Jenny Gwynne said, “Our team is passionate about supporting YWCA Australia’s core mission and pleased to be collaborating with many talented women on this project, delivering tangible outcomes that will benefit women in the community.”
