A Lifeline for Women Escaping Domestic Violence, Housing Insecurity and Financial Hardship

Byron Bay, Australia – Fletcher Street Cottage is set to officially launch its Women’s Emergency Relief Program on International Women’s Day, March 8 2025, reinforcing its commitment to providing immediate and essential support to women facing domestic violence and homelessness.

“With the number of women seeking help increasing dramatically, it is clear that more must be done,” said Maddi Powell, Assistant Manager and Community Support Worker. “Many of these women are fleeing abusive situations. In those moments, they need urgent assistance, and that’s exactly what the Women’s Emergency Relief Program allows us to provide – critical support, immediately.”

Fletcher Street Cottage Volunteers

Addressing the Rising Demand

Women now account for a significant proportion of service users at Fletcher Street Cottage. Community Support Workers and visiting specialist services offer personalised support, advocacy and referrals, but there is a rising demand for emergency relief for vulnerable women.

Over the past six months, Fletcher Street Cottage has observed an alarming rise in women escaping domestic violence and housing insecurity, many with complex mental health needs. The Women’s Emergency Relief Program is designed to respond swiftly and effectively, ensuring safety and stability during times of crisis.

Immediate, Practical Support
The program provides discreet and rapid assistance, including:

  • Immediate transport to safer locations for women escaping dangerous situations.
  • Food vouchers for women and children facing hunger.
  • Emergency financial assistance for urgent expenses, such as overdue bills.
  • Support provided discreetly and rapidly, ensuring safety and dignity.

Domestic violence remains the leading cause of homelessness among women in Australia*. Older women are the fastest growing group of people experiencing homelessness in Australia. This is due to a number of factors, including financial insecurity, housing costs, age discrimination, caring responsibilities and domestic violence. Many women affected are part of the hidden homeless in the Byron Shire, sleeping in cars, tents or couchsurfing.

Bangalow CWA Donation

Entirely funded by community donations, the program depends on the generosity of local supporters. One of the first major contributors is the Bangalow Country Women’s Association (CWA), which has committed a $10,000 donation.

“Our branch members believe in backing the work of local community organisations, particularly those seeking to overcome the impact of homelessness and domestic and family violence among women,” said Ruth Kirby, President of the Bangalow CWA. “We were very pleased to learn that Fletcher Street Cottage has been targeting services for women and that the Women’s Emergency Relief Fund will further this work.”

Beyond this initial donation, the Bangalow CWA has increased its ongoing monthly contribution to Fletcher Street Cottage to $500 per month to ensure sustained support.

Call for Community Support

“This isn’t just about providing shelter or food vouchers,” continued Maddi Powell. “It’s about giving women their dignity back. It’s about offering them safety, stability and a pathway to rebuild their lives.”

With demand continuing to grow, ongoing community support is essential. Every donation helps ensure that Fletcher Street Cottage, operated by the Byron Community Centre, can continue providing these lifesaving services for vulnerable women.

How to Donate: Contributions can be made directly at www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.

For many women, the Women’s Emergency Relief Program offers hope in what is often their darkest hours. And for the Byron community, it’s a reminder that together the community can make a real difference.

Women’s Emergency Relief Program: www.byroncentre.com.au/programs/womens-emergency-relief-program

Statistics

From 2022 to 2025, Fletcher Street Cottage has supported over 3,500 vulnerable women. In just 2025 so far, over 400 women have already accessed the service. The projected percentage increase in women accessing Fletcher Street Cottage’s services in 2025 compared to the previous years (2022-2024 average) is approximately 145% – a significant rise that underscores the growing demand for emergency relief.