The Arada Foundation has launched ‘Arada House,’ a new safe haven for women and children escaping domestic and family violence in Sydney. Announced on November 18, 2025, at an event held at NSW Parliament House, this initiative aims to provide essential housing and support services to help vulnerable individuals rebuild their lives.
$3.4 million has been invested in the acquisition of a unit block in Campsie, marking the Arada Foundation’s first facility of its kind in Australia. Developed in partnership with Women’s Community Shelters (WCS), which will manage the operations, Arada House is set to become a vital resource in the community.
The facility will address the pressing issue of domestic and family violence, which significantly affects communities across Australia. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, approximately one in four women have experienced domestic violence. In the Canterbury-Bankstown Local Government Area, where Campsie is located, over 1,700 domestic violence-related assaults are recorded annually, reflecting the ongoing crisis in the region.
Addressing a Critical Need
With more than 2,695 individuals identified as homeless in the Canterbury-Bankstown area during the 2021 Census, the demand for safe, stable housing is critical. The average wait time for social housing in this region exceeds 10 years for most property types, according to the NSW Government. Arada House will provide immediate safety and comprehensive support to women and children, offering 20 additional safe beds per night, which translates to approximately 7,300 safe bed nights each year.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, emphasized the broader impact of domestic violence, stating, “Domestic and family violence is not something that stays behind closed doors – it affects every part of our community, including workplaces. Arada House represents a tangible step in addressing this crisis.”
Comprehensive Support and Long-Term Impact
Residents of Arada House will benefit from a range of support services tailored to foster independence and resilience. This includes programs designed to equip women with essential skills and resources, ultimately reducing the likelihood of returning to abusive situations.
Annabelle Daniel OAM, CEO of Women’s Community Shelters, highlighted the collaborative effort behind this initiative. “Arada House is a powerful example of what’s possible when shared purpose drives action,” she remarked. “Together, we have created a safe haven that will support women and children impacted by domestic and family violence for the next 15 years.”
The property, situated on a 695sqm plot, comprises eight apartments (six two-bedroom and two one-bedroom), along with shared facilities such as a laundry area and dedicated parking for residents. This thoughtful design aims to create a welcoming environment in a family-friendly neighbourhood.
The Arada Foundation is committed to long-term social impact, as evidenced by its flagship programme, Home for a Home, which builds homes for families in need for every property sold by Arada during specific times of the year. Another initiative, Arada Academies, focuses on providing construction skills training and employment support to military veterans in the UK.
Rosa Piro, Director of the Arada Foundation, encapsulated the mission of Arada House by stating, “When the place that should offer safety becomes a source of harm, the foundations of life are shaken. Arada House will be a space to heal and to find the strength to rebuild.”
As the Arada Foundation continues to expand its initiatives, Arada House stands out as a significant step towards creating safer communities for women and children affected by domestic violence.
