Activity details
The Core and Cluster model is an innovative model that allows for independent living and privacy while also providing access to supports. Under the Core and Cluster model, self-contained accommodation is located next to a ‘core’, which provides access to services such as counselling, legal assistance, education and employment support. The sites may contain meeting rooms, audio-visual equipment for court appearances, communal kitchens, and playgrounds. This initiative will provide a holistic approach to assist women leaving violence.
The NSW Government has committed to deliver 49 Core and Cluster domestic and family violence refuges across NSW. Nine of these will be Aboriginal led projects and 36 will be in regional and rural NSW.
Implementation progress update
The Core and Cluster program aims to improve access to culturally safe services and supports for Aboriginal women and children. The NSW Government provided funding to Aboriginal Community Control Organisations (ACCOs) with a targeted procurement approach.
Ten refuges are operating and 2 of these are Aboriginal-led women's refuges. Other projects are at different stages of planning and construction. The Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) is working closely with non-government providers to make sure Core and Cluster refuges are delivered on time.
As part of the program, the NSW Government funded Aboriginal Community Housing Industry Association NSW (ACHIA) to deliver the Coolamon Project. ACHIA led an engagement strategy for ACCOs with relevant skills and experience to deliver the Core and Cluster program ahead of the third tranche of applications. All tranches have now closed. DCJ are currently exploring options to potentially extend The Coolamon Project to ensure implementation support is available to Core and Cluster applicants.
Aboriginal legal and consultancy firm, Chalk & Behrendt, were engaged to develop and present a Subject Overview and Factsheet on land dealing processes for Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALC), designed to facilitate the engagement of LALCs in the program.
For more information see Core and Cluster Program.
More information
- Learn about the National Plan to End Violence against women and children 2022-2032.
- Read the First Action Plan 2023-2027.
- Browse the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan update.