With pen put to paper, the green light has been given for work to start on Gunnedah's Domestic Violence Refuge.
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Jobs Australia CEO Nigel Barlow signed the GJ Gardner Home's contract on Thursday, flicking the switch for the 22 week project to begin.
The project had a $48,000 shortfall in funding at the beginning of August, and Jobs Australia put a call out for any sponsors looking to come on board.
Mr Barlow said they had received an overwhelming response from members and businesses in the community, donating items such as furniture to deck the place out once the safe haven is completed.
"It's important that this works, and so far it's looking very positive," Mr Barlow said.
"This is a model, and I am confident it will be a successful model, and we will look to maybe run out some similar facilities in other areas."
GJ Gardner's Dan Urquhart said once the ink dried, the build would take around 22 weeks to complete, but all going well would be done sooner.
Women's and family safety is at the heart of every community - its one of the most important things, so for us to build a house and to help in that area we are so grateful.
- Dan Urquhart
He said the whole team were "absolutely pleased" to be a part of a project giving so much back to the Gunnedah community.
"Women's and family safety is at the heart of every community - its one of the most important things, so for us to build a house and to help in that area we are so grateful," Mr Urquhart said.
A sentiment echoed by MP Kevin Anderson, who was instrumental in securing a $196,000 grant from the state government's Building Better Communities fund.
"It's a great example of collaboration ... it will be a place of safety, warmth, welcome," he said.
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"[Something] I am very passionate about is zero tolerance to domestic violence and we have to do everything we possibly can to help the most vulnerable at probably the most vulnerable time in their lives."
The shelter will provide a 24 hour emergency contact through Jobs Australia Enterprises and residents will be supported by the Salvation Army "Doorways Program".
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please contact the 24 hour Domestic Violence Hotline on 1800 65 64 63 when it's safe to do so.
