Arada steps in to support local crisis refuge during Homelessness Week
Australia: 6 August 2025
This week is Homelessness Week, and in line with this year’s theme “Homelessness Action Now,” a vital new initiative has been announced to support women and children fleeing domestic and family violence (DFV) in Southwest Sydney.
The Hon. Jodie Harrison, MP – Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault – revealed plans to expand crisis accommodation capacity through an innovative modular shelter model designed to deliver fast, flexible support for those in urgent need.
The announcement was made at Biyani House, a crisis refuge operated by Women’s Community Shelters (WCS). As the first modular shelter of many more to come, Biyani House represents the latest step in addressing the national emergency of homelessness caused by DFV—the leading driver of homelessness for women in Australia. According to the 2021 Census, over 54,000 women across the country are homeless each night, most due to domestic and family violence.
The Arada Foundation is enabling Biyani House to remain fully operational by providing emergency shelter accommodation, ensuring uninterrupted safety, stability and care for women and children throughout the redevelopment process.
Aladdin Kheir, Director of Arada, said: “We believe every woman and child deserves a safe place to heal and rebuild. Supporting Biyani House to stay open while its facilities are being transformed reflects our commitment to practical, on-the-ground action that creates immediate impact. This collaboration with Women’s Community Shelters is one way we can help deliver more safe havens where and when they’re needed most.”
The initiative reflects a collaborative approach between government, community organisations, and the private sector—delivering not just long-term solutions, but immediate support for those at risk of homelessness right now, with Biyani House paving the way for a network of similar modular shelters in the near future.
Photo left to right: Fiona Simmons, Arada; Ryan Brown, Shape; Dino Vrynios, Das Studio; The Hon. Jodie Harrison, MP, Minister for Women. Minister for Seniors. Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault; Christine Benham, Revesby Workers; Dr Hugh McDermott, Member for Prospect; Aladdin Kheir, Arada.
