A huge effort from the Property Industry Foundation, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and McCormack has transformed Haven House Inner West – a 7-bedroom centre for girls seeking crisis accommodation though The Girls Refuge, operated by Detour House Inc.
The Girls Refuge offers urgent secure, and supported accommodation to girls aged 12-17, experiencing trauma or instability at home. The Property Industry Foundation and its industry supporters joined forces to overhaul the tired property, which needed a new bathroom, laundry, youth worker overnight room, crisis bedroom, and more privacy in the bedrooms.
“This project has reminded me of the power of community collaboration, and how together, we can make a lasting difference.”
Caddie Sanders, McCormack
With a brief to provide a safe, welcoming and functional new living space, McCormack joined the project as Building Partner. “Contributing to the Girls Refuge project has been a deeply rewarding experience for us here at McCormack,” says Senior Project Manager Caddie Sanders. “It goes beyond just building a space—it’s about creating a sanctuary where young girls can feel safe, supported, and empowered.”
The project came to fruition thanks to many hands. “It was great to collaborate with both NAWIC and the Property Industry Foundation in bringing together our resources and connections to be able to support such a great cause,” says Caddie. “Also, a special shout-out to our incredible trades, whose expertise, hard work, and dedication brought this vision to life. This project has reminded me of the power of community collaboration, and how together, we can make a lasting difference.”
Project Partner NAWIC were all-in on the renovation, also helping with an onsite working bee on 8 November to clean and paint the walls in readiness for opening. “NAWIC NSW is excited to see first-hand how the Foundation works with partners like the Girls Refuge to support women and their families. It’s incredible to see the commitment from everyone involved, especially the generous contribution of time and resources from the McCormack team.”
Project Partner NAWIC were all-in on the renovation, also helping with an onsite working bee on 8 November to clean and paint the walls in readiness for opening. “NAWIC NSW is excited to see first-hand how the Foundation works with partners like the Girls Refuge to support women and their families. It’s incredible to see the commitment from everyone involved, especially the generous contribution of time and resources from the McCormack team.”
Shape’s Emily Spurway offered her skills as Project Manager. “Working on this project has been eye opening and given me insight into how much positive impact we can have by stepping outside of our bubble and giving back to those in need,” says Emily. “I hope through delivering this project we have inspired the young women to dream big and maybe one day we will see a few of them in the construction world.”
The female-led team included Alice Dodwell, National Capital Works Manager, Charter Hall, who represented the Foundation. “My involvement representing the Property Industry Foundation with the Haven House Inner West project has shown me the importance of industry partnerships and the passion and willingness of those involved to make a difference,” says Alice. “This project was a true collaboration and is the core of what the Foundation stands for. I am grateful to have been involved from start to finish to witness such an incredible transformation.”
Coronation Property helped to make the centre feel welcoming, providing new furnishings including indoor and outdoor furniture, lamps, mirrors, rugs, and prints. “Our interior design team curated all of the furniture with an aim to create a sense of home, comfort, and quality for the girls,” says Charlotte Dillon, Head of Philanthropy. ”It’s not just shelter or a roof over their head, its a safe space and a stable foundation for the girls to heal, learn, and grow in a supportive environment.”
The Girls Refuge staff and residents are delighted with their new living spaces, especially the brand new bathroom. “We have been stunned by the renovation of our outdated bathroom,” says Cindi Petersen from The Girls Refuge. “Staff were previously embarrassed to show new residents the 70s brown tile bathroom. The new bathroom is sleek and modern and the residents and staff are very grateful. The renovation also established a crisis bedroom in a former office, this increases our capacity to support young people entering the service in crisis. The opportunity to work with the Property Industry Foundation and its industry partners has enabled us to improve the quality of our house ensuring young people in our care feel like they are in a home-like environment.”
Other contributions to Haven House Inner West:
