What’s Happening?
The Domestic Violence Action Centre (DVAC) launched its Homes for Hope initiative during its 30th anniversary celebration in Ipswich earlier this month.
Held at the newly renovated Hotel Commonwealth in the Nicholas Street Precinct, the event brought together supporters, sponsors and community advocates.
The initiative will provide purpose-built modular accommodation for women and children escaping domestic and family violence across Ipswich and Toowoomba. During the celebration, DVAC also launched its 2026 Impact Report, highlighting the growing demand for domestic violence support services.
Why It Matters
Finding safe housing remains one of the biggest challenges for people escaping domestic violence. Rising living costs and housing pressures have made that challenge even harder.
DVAC Chief Executive Officer Amie Carrington said the anniversary was both a celebration and a reminder of the work still needed.
“We are so proud to be celebrating three decades of impact, community connection and service,” Ms Carrington said. “However, this milestone comes at a deeply confronting time for our community. Recent deaths linked to domestic and family violence have brought renewed grief, concern and urgency to an issue that affects far too many people. Together with cost of living pressures and the housing crisis, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of the challenge. But every day, we see how powerful community support can be. Our anniversary is a chance to invite our community to be part of the solution. Raising funds to support Homes for Hope is a tangible way everyone can help create safety, stability and hope for families who need it most.”
Local Impact
Homes for Hope aims to address housing insecurity by providing transitional accommodation at two local locations.
The project has secured funding support from the Australian Government, Ipswich City Council and private philanthropy. For women and children leaving violent situations, the accommodation will offer a safer place to live during a difficult transition.
Proceeds from the anniversary celebration will also support the housing initiative, strengthening community involvement in the project.
By The Numbers
DVAC’s latest report and anniversary celebration highlighted both the demand for specialist support and the community response.
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More than 150 people attended the anniversary celebration and Homes for Hope launch in Ipswich on 10 October.
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More than 9,200 people accessed DVAC services during the 2025-26 financial year, according to its 2026 Impact Report.
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795 clients disclosed experiencing non-lethal strangulation, which is recognised as an indicator of heightened homicide risk.
Zoom In
Among those sharing their experiences was Ipswich business owner, lived experience advocate and event sponsor Josie Smith.
Smith spoke about her experience of domestic violence and the support DVAC provided throughout her recovery.
“They gave me support, they gave me counselling, they gave me advice, they gave me strength. They helped me plan my escape and they stood by my side in court so I didn’t have to face him alone,” she said. “The fact is, we all have the resources within us to succeed.”
Her account highlighted the importance of practical assistance, counselling and ongoing support for people rebuilding their lives after violence.
The anniversary event ran from 6 pm to 10 pm, featuring music, raffles, auctions, food and drinks.
It was supported by local businesses and community partners, including Century 21 Josie Smith & Co, RizeUp and Chambers Russell Lawyers. Hillcrew Developments and Ipswich Jets Leagues Club also contributed, alongside other supporters.
Zoom Out
For three decades, DVAC has supported people affected by domestic, family and sexual violence across Ipswich, Toowoomba and surrounding communities.
Primarily funded by the Queensland Government, the accredited specialist organisation provides crisis assistance, individual support, intensive case management and recovery programmes.
Its work also extends to people using violence through early intervention and men’s behaviour change programmes.
These services aim to address violent behaviour while supporting the safety, dignity and recovery of victim survivors. Homes for Hope adds a housing initiative to that work, recognising the importance of safe accommodation for those escaping abuse.
What To Look For Next?
With Homes for Hope officially launched, community donations and continued support could help bring the planned transitional homes to life.
The initiative offers an opportunity to strengthen local housing support for women and children seeking safety from domestic violence. Community members interested in contributing can find donation and sponsorship information through the Domestic Violence Action Centre website.