Woman critically injured in Redfern assault
A 47-year-old woman is fighting for her life following an alleged domestic violence assault in Redfern, Sydney. Emergency services responded to reports of an incident at a unit on Morehead Street around 4:30 PM on Saturday. Upon arrival, police discovered the woman inside the apartment with severe head injuries. She was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance critical care paramedics before being transported to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, where she remains in critical condition.
Man arrested and charged over violent attack
A 30-year-old man, known to the victim, was arrested at the scene and taken to Mascot Police Station. He has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, categorized as a domestic violence offense. The accused was denied bail and is scheduled to appear before Parramatta Local Court on Sunday.
Domestic violence remains a widespread issue
This incident underscores the persistent issue of domestic violence in New South Wales. Approximately 37% of women in the state have experienced physical and/or sexual violence since the age of 15. Women are more likely than men to experience violence by someone known to them, with one in four women experiencing violence by a family member or intimate partner.
COVID-19 pandemic worsened domestic violence rates
The rate of domestic violence assault incidents in New South Wales has increased by 3% annually over the past five years. Notably, research shows significant increases in violence against women in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, including 60,000 NSW women experiencing family and domestic violence for the first time and 46,000 women experiencing an escalation in violence.
NSW government boosts funding to combat domestic violence
In response to the growing crisis, the NSW Government has committed significant resources to combat domestic and family violence. This includes a $48 million investment to roll out the Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) program statewide and to expand the Integrated Domestic and Family Violence Service (IDFVS). SHLV supports women and their children to remain safe in their home after leaving a violent relationship, providing services such as safety and risk assessments, security upgrades, financial assistance, legal help, and employment support.
New refuge to support Aboriginal families
Additionally, the government has invested over $9.4 million into the construction of a new refuge by Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation in Wollondilly. This refuge will provide up to 10 self-contained units catering to victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, their children, and pets. On-site access to culturally safe and trauma-informed support services will also be available.
Homelessness continues to rise among survivors
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. It’s estimated that more than 18,700 people—mostly women and children—became homeless due to domestic violence in 2024. The housing crisis exacerbates the situation, with shelters across the state constantly full, leading to many victim-survivors being turned away.
Advocates push for creative housing solutions
Advocates emphasize the need for innovative solutions to address the shortage of crisis accommodation. Suggestions include repurposing underutilized facilities such as aged care homes and decommissioned hotels to provide immediate shelter for those fleeing violence.
Help is available 24/7 for those in need
For immediate support, individuals experiencing domestic and family violence can contact the NSW Domestic Violence Line at 1800 65 64 63 or 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732. These services offer free counseling and referrals, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
