New beginnings

Published: 

9 December 2024 10:06AM

'It was eye-opening, freeing, and empowering to know I had started to regain my independence.'

Anna lost everything to domestic violence. Now, she’s rebuilding her life with the help of Coast2Bay Housing Group, which receives funding from the Queensland Government.

'I was a victim of serious domestic violence. This led to the loss of our home, car, and whatever financial security I had managed to preserve after leaving my husband,’’ Anna says.

Grappling with crushing debt, Anna and her children spent a long time without a fixed address and were forced to resort to a mix of hotels, sleeping at train stations and sharing a tent.

'Every day, I had to choose to repay loans or provide the kids with food, safety and shelter,’’ she says.

'Over the years, my confidence and independence eroded. I doubted my ability to do anything, other than being a mother.'

Coast2Bay referred Anna to the Women's Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) outreach program, which helped Anna finalise her divorce and manage her debt.

Anna says the experience of getting back on her feet was emotionally draining and painful at times.

'The WLSQ supported and equipped me to deal with my debt. They somehow managed to instil confidence back in me. I was starting to believe in myself again.'

The family now has a safe and secure home as part of Coast2Bay’s community housing portfolio. Anna is working and her kids are settled at school, while the Coast2Bay tenancy team continues to help Anna plan for her future.

If you or someone you know needs housing help

Call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or contact your local Housing Service Centre.

If you are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness, contact the Homeless Hotline for free on 1800 474 753 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Find out more about housing help and support.