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Redfern Legal Centre Receives $8.1-M Funding Boost

Photo Credit: Redfern Legal Centre / rlc.org.au/

Did you know that Redfern Legal Centre is set to expand its free financial abuse service statewide over the next four years, thanks to an $8.1-million funding boost?

Financial abuse often plays a role in the context of coercive control within intimate partner relationships. This is a form of abuse that includes limiting or completely denying an individual’s access to financial resources, manipulating their financial choices, or using their partner’s money without their consent.

A website dedicated to educating people about coercive control was launched this year, ahead of coercive control being considered a criminal offence in 2024. The site explains the signs and behaviours that can be considered coercive control.

RLC recognises that there is a growing demand for their support service and a need to provide these kinds of financial abuse. With the recent funding boost, RLC will be able to expand its capacity from 300 clients to about 500 clients for free legal assistance, family law issues or money problems as a result of financial abuse.

The funding boost to help expand the legal assistance sector is just one of the many measures of the State Government which are aimed at reducing the rates of domestic and family violence.

“The legal assistance sector plays a critical part in our justice system, helping some of the state’s most vulnerable people access free, timely legal advice to stop problems escalating,”.NSW Attorney General Michael Daley said

“This $8.1 million funding boost will mean more people across NSW can find information to protect and support them to recover from financial abuse, which can be a particularly insidious form of coercive control in relationships.”

Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said, “Unlike signs of physical abuse, financial abuse is often difficult to detect. Lack of access to finances can be one reason people stay in abusive relationships.

“The service Redfern Legal Centre provides is crucial to making sure victim-survivors receive the right financial advice to be able to escape an abusive relationship. It is one of the many ways the NSW Government is working to reduce rates of family and domestic violence.”

Published 27-October-2023

Redfern Station Gets Major Upgrade with Direct Pathways to Carriageworks and South Eveleigh

Redfern Station, Sydney’s fifth-busiest train station, is now also one of the most accessible after undergoing a huge safety and convenience overhaul.

The grand unveiling of the long-anticipated upgrade of the Redfern Train Station was met with enthusiasm by commuters and the community alike. The station’s facelift includes a gleaming new southern concourse and two additional entrances, notably one on the southwestern side, facilitating easy access to the vibrant cultural precinct of Carriageworks and South Eveleigh.

The Upgraded Redfern Station

With this direct pathway, commuters can effortlessly engage in the dynamic program of large-scale theatre, dance, and installation works at Carriageworks, and indulge in the delights of the Carriageworks Farmers Market, making it a Saturday morning staple.

For those seeking entertainment and employment opportunities, the concourse also provides a direct walkway to South Eveleigh, home to various establishments like BrewDog, Lucky Kwong for wonton noodle soup enthusiasts, and the world’s first permanent zero-waste bar, Re.

The comprehensive project not only improves accessibility but also enhances safety features. It includes the installation of six new lifts, stair access to platforms one through ten, designated drop-off areas, and accessible toilets. These enhancements are set to be game-changers for passengers with disabilities or limited mobility and those travelling with prams, luggage, or bikes.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns commented on the significance of this upgrade.

“Given its close proximity to education, health, employment, and cultural precincts, we know how important Redfern Station is for people accessing local services and attractions, so it’s great to see these accessibility upgrades completed,” he said.

Community Involvement

The NSW Government approached the station’s redesign collaboratively, engaging heritage architects and consulting with Aboriginal community members to ensure the upgrades resonate with Redfern’s rich cultural heritage. This transformation marks the beginning of a new era for Redfern Station, setting the stage for a promising future for the historic transport hub.

“The upgrade of this station was years in the making, with people advocating for this project for decades,” Jo Haylen, Minister for Transport, remarked. “Now with an additional $300 million in the budget for further station accessibility upgrades, I look forward to seeing even more communities across NSW making the most of these vital station upgrades.”

“These six brand new lifts at one of our state’s busiest train stations will open up new opportunities for people with disability, parents with prams, and anyone with mobility issues,” Kate Washington, Minister for Disability Inclusion, emphasized.

Broader Accessibility Initiatives

With Redfern Station’s success story, the government has dedicated further funding to enhance accessibility across the state’s public transport system. This development aligns with the broader Transport Access Program, and the outcome has set the stage for more communities in New South Wales to benefit from safe and accessible public transport options.

In addition to Redfern Station’s remarkable transformation, Stanmore Station has also received its accessibility upgrades, with a pair of lifts being added to ensure equal access to both the platforms and the connecting tunnel. These initiatives signal a bright future for public transport in New South Wales, making travel smoother, safer, and more accessible for all.

Published 14-Oct-2023

New Cycleways and Paths Enhance Bike-Friendly Status of Alexandria and Erskineville

Photo Credit: City of Sydney / news.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that there are several new cycleways and shared paths in Alexandria and Erskineville?

The introduction of new cycling infrastructure was driven by a growing trend in Alexandria and Erskineville, areas that recent research have identified as emerging places for interest in cycling in Sydney.

One of the most prominent additions is a 1.2-km, two-way separated cycleway that runs along Henderson Road, Railway Parade, and Bridge Street. This route connects Erskineville to Eveleigh, serving businesses and homes in the area. These newly established connections are part of the City of Sydney’s ongoing efforts to facilitate better cycling and walking infrastructure.

Sydney LM Clover Moore AO expressed her excitement about the newly established infrastructure and its potential to transform the city into a hub for cycling, walking, and public transport.

“These permanent cycleways and shared paths leave local streets safer, calmer and quieter, and our air cleaner to breathe. They’re connecting neighbourhoods, increasing transport choices, and leading to more active and healthy communities. We are making cycling easier and safer, so it is an appealing and feasible option for even more people,” she said.

Mitchell Road and Huntley Street have also received significant enhancements, providing better access for riders from the southern areas of Alexandria, Erskineville, Redfern, and beyond. Furthermore, the completion of dedicated cycleways along parts of Ashmore and Harley Streets, combined with new shared paths between Elliott Avenue and Buckland Street, has enhanced connectivity for residents, particularly students and parents accessing nearby schools.

The rising popularity of cycling in Alexandria and Erskineville is further evident in a recent survey conducted by the University of NSW, which found that 19% of residents in the Ashmore precinct ride a bike to work or study.

When combined with the 26% of residents who walk to work or study, these suburbs are becoming model communities for active transport.

The City of Sydney’s manager of cycling strategy, Fiona Campbell, attributes this success to the city’s investments in safe cycling infrastructure and educational efforts.

“This is a case of build it and they will come. The City of Sydney has invested in safe infrastructure which is a big component. But we have also put lots of effort into educating the community and offering courses that empower people to feel confident riding in a big city like Sydney,” she said.

“We have more work to do but the signs for Sydney’s riding community look positive.”

Published 13-October-2023

New and Improved Redfern Station Enhances Accessibility and Heritage

After years of anticipation and community advocacy, the newly upgraded Redfern Station in Sydney has officially opened, marking a significant milestone in the State’s Transport Access Program.

The station, one of Sydney’s oldest and busiest railway sites, has undergone a transformation to enhance accessibility and safety for passengers with disabilities, limited mobility, and those travelling with prams, luggage, or bicycles.

This comprehensive upgrade includes new lifts, additional entrances, accessible facilities, and improved streetscaping. The project also paid homage to the station’s unique cultural heritage through collaboration with heritage architects and Aboriginal community members.

Enhanced Accessibility and Improved Connectivity

The most notable feature of the upgraded Redfern Station is the new southern concourse, equipped with six state-of-the-art lifts and stair access to Platforms 1 to 10. These additions ensure that passengers with disabilities and those travelling with mobility devices and other equipment.

Furthermore, the upgrade includes two additional entrances, drop-off areas, accessible toilets, and enhanced streetscaping, making the station more user-friendly for everyone.

The strategic location of the pedestrian bridge provides easier access to important arts and employment precincts, such as Carriageworks and South Eveleigh. This enhancement strengthens the station’s role as a vital transportation hub, connecting passengers to key destinations in the city.

Responding to a community campaign, the new concourse introduces barrier-free access, allowing people to move freely between Little Eveleigh and Marian Streets. This improvement aligns with the goal of making Redfern Station more inclusive and welcoming to all passengers.

Cultural Heritage Preserved

Transport for NSW collaborated closely with heritage architects and members of the Aboriginal community to ensure that the upgrade respected and reflected the station and its surrounding area’s unique cultural heritage. This approach demonstrates a commitment to preserving the history and character of Redfern Station while modernizing its facilities.

The Redfern Station upgrade is part of the Transport Access Program, which received a significant boost of $300 million in the most recent budget. This funding injection will enable more communities across New South Wales to benefit from safe and accessible public transport options.

Government Officials Express Satisfaction

“Given its close proximity to education, health, employment and cultural precincts, we know how important Redfern Station is for people accessing local services and attractions, so it’s great to see these accessibility upgrades completed,” Chris Minns, Premier of NSW said.

“I am pleased to mark the completion of this project, which will benefit so many rail commuters and visitors travelling on our states rail network.”

“Redfern Train Station is the fifth busiest train station in the state, but for the 140 years it’s been serving passengers it hasn’t been accessible,” Jo Haylen, Minister for Transport, said.

“That changes today as this much-needed upgrade opens, breathing new life into this beautiful old station and ensuring it has better capacity and accessibility into the future.

“The upgrade of this station was years in the making, with people advocating for this project for decades. I want to thank the more than four thousand workers who contributed to this project, as well as the community for their patience during construction.

“Now with an additional $300m in the budget for further station accessibility upgrades, I look forward to seeing even more communities across NSW making the most of these vital station upgrades.”

The Redfern Station upgrade marks a significant achievement in improving public transport accessibility and preserving cultural heritage, setting a positive example for future infrastructure projects across the state.

Published 10-Oct-2023

The Harmonious Haven: With One Voice in Redfern

Photo Credit: Mary Kiani/Facebook

Amidst the bustling streets of Sydney is a harmonious haven waiting for those who seek solace and unity through the power of music. The Settlement Neighbourhood Centre Hall is home to With One Voice Redfern, a local choir that welcomes all with open arms and voices ready to blend in perfect harmony.

As the sun dips below the horizon every Monday evening, the voices of community members from all walks of life fill the hall with their rich timbres. The Settlement‘s doors swing open promptly at 6:00 p.m. and With One Voice choir members gather, eager to share the magic of music.

There are no auditions to fret about, no prerequisites, and no need for prior singing experience at With One Voice Redfern. This is a place where everyone is welcome to be part of something great.

Professional conductors guide the choir, their expertise weaving the voices together into a tapestry of sound that transcends language, culture, and background. The weekly rehearsals are not just about singing; they are also about creating a warm, welcoming community where everyone has a platform to embrace, improve, and celebrate their unique voice.

Here, music is the common language and it knows no barriers. It is a non-competitive environment where the choir creates a symphony. In these moments, they are not just individuals; they are a collective force of creativity and emotion.

Behind this beautiful initiative is Creativity Australia, a not-for-profit charity founded in Melbourne on the belief that music has the power to build a happier, healthier, and more inclusive nation. They understand that society is fragmented, that the bonds of community are fraying, and that many voices remain unheard. They believe in unlocking human potential, fostering innovation, and addressing the challenges faced by the community and the world at large.

Tania de Jong, the visionary behind this movement, passionately speaks about the need to give everyone a voice, irrespective of their background. She believes that by doing so, they can harness untapped creativity and contribute to solving the world’s most pressing issues.

The science of neuroplasticity attests to the transformative power of singing, enhancing their cognitive abilities and fostering a sense of belonging. Through regular performances, the choir transcends borders, reaching out to the wider community and demonstrating the unifying force of music.

Experience the joy of singing and building a stronger, more inclusive community by attending the rehearsals for With One Voice Redfern every Monday at 6:00 p.m. at The Settlement Neighbourhood Centre Hall.

Follow the group’s Facebook page for more details.

Caitlin Foord and Arsenal Crash Out of Champions League in Dramatic Shootout

World Cup standout and Sydney FC legend Caitlin Foord will not be playing in the Champions League this season after Arsenal’s dramatic defeat to Paris FC in last weekend’s qualifying final.

Read: Cheeseburgers Go Vegan as Mr Charlie’s Heads Down Under to Redfern

Arsenal vs Paris FC

Two quick goals in the 56th and 57th minutes put Paris FC 2-0 up against the Gunners. In response, the manager made a bold 59th-minute substitution, taking off four Arsenal starters, including Caitlin Foord. Fellow Matilda Steph Catley also started the match and was substituted out during extra time.

The change proved to be a much-needed wake-up call for the English side. Alessia Russo pulled a goal back for Arsenal in the 80th minute before Jen Beattie equalised in the 96th minute to force extra time. Paris FC took a 3-2 lead early in extra time before Russo equalised again to make it 3-3.

The match went to penalties, where Paris FC goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie saved back-to-back shots to keep Arsenal out of the competition despite their comeback.

Caitlin Foord continues World Cup form

Caitlin Foord for Arsenal — Photo Credit: Instagram/Arsenal Women

Just three days before the Paris match, Foord opened the scoring and set up another as Arsenal defeated Linköping 3-0 to book their place in the qualifying final. Her goal was Arsenal’s 300th in European competition.

The match came less than three weeks after Foord’s historic World Cup campaign with the Matildas.

Despite Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley’s best efforts, Arsenal’s Champions League journey is over. The club will now focus on the Women’s Super League title when the new season kicks off on October 1.

Read: Major Waterloo Estate Renewal to Increase Affordable Home Development

Among the world’s best

Caitlin Foord for Australia — Photo Credit: FIFA.com

Caitlin Foord will undoubtedly be disappointed to drop out of the Champions League after her World Cup heroics.

Foord has been a standout performer for club and country, netting 12 goal contributions in the league (second-most for Arsenal) and six times in Europe (joint ninth-most in the competition) last season, as well as three times in the 2023 World Cup (tied for most in the Matildas).

Foord’s outstanding performances have earned her a reputation as one of the best players in the women’s game. This week, she was named in the sixteen-player shortlist for the FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year alongside Matildas Mary Fowler and Sam Kerr.

The talismanic forward will lead the line for Arsenal as they challenge Kerr’s Chelsea in the Women’s Super League.

Published 16 September 2023

Commonwealth Bank’s Historic Relics on Display at “The Vault” Archive

Photo Credit: Commonwealth Bank of Australia / commbank.com.au

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has unlocked ‘The Vault’ in Redfern, to unveil an extraordinary collection of financial relics, including traveller’s cheques, a vintage 1980s phone banking device, and an endearing but short-lived humanoid robot named Chip.

As part of the public opening of its archives, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has revealed a treasure trove of historical artefacts from the financial industry. The exhibit includes items including traveller’s checks, a 1980s phone banking machine, and Chip, a short-lived humanoid robot.

Photo Credit: Commonwealth Bank of Australia / commbank.com.au

CBA’s collection comprises 2,000 linear metres of paper archives, over 300,000 photographs, 5,000 video tapes, 500 additional objects, and corporate wardrobe pieces dating back to 1986.These time capsules provide an interesting look at how banking procedures have changed over the past 100 years.

One of the earliest items on display is a money box from 1921. It was designed to teach children the art of saving coins and watching them grow into substantial sums. This simple yet effective tool served as a financial rite of passage for generations.

Traveller’s cheques, introduced by CBA in 1936, once revolutionised international travel. These cheques were a staple for tourists for decades until they were gradually replaced by pre-paid, debit, and credit cards.

Likewise, a glimpse into the past of banking technology can be seen in the 1980s phone banking device. This device allowed customers to connect to the bank’s computer system via their telephone lines to check balances and pay bills—an early precursor to today’s online banking.

One of the more intriguing relics is Chip, a humanoid robot acquired by CBA in 2015 with plans to use it as a “concierge” in bank branches. Unfortunately, Chip’s limited 20-minute battery life led to the realisation that human concierges were more valuable.

Whilst the core services offered by banks remain consistent—holding deposits, facilitating payments, and lending money—Sinead Taylor, CBA’s Chief Operations Officer, stressed that these artefacts reveal just how much faster and more efficient banking processes have become for customers over the years.

“Archives and artefacts are so valuable to provide insights on the development of the financial system and the impact it has had on society,” Sinead said.

Published 13-September-2023

Cheeseburgers Go Vegan as Mr Charlie’s Heads Down Under to Redfern

The streets of Redfern are about to get a lot more colourful because Mr Charlie’s, the American plant-based fast food chain known for redefining fast food, is bringing its bright red and yellow branding to Australia for the first time.

Read: Redfern’s Aplenty Elevates Communal Dining To A Whole New Level

The new store, set to open on September 30, marks the first international expansion for the brand founded by friends Taylor McKinnon, Aaron Haxton, and Charlie Kim.

“There are some places in the world that just leave an impression, Sydney is one of those places for us,” the company announced on social media. “The energy of the city is vibrant and fresh, while the heartbeat is pure and kind.”

Mr Charlie’s in Los Angeles (Photo credit: Michael Harrold/Google Maps)

“Why Redfern? Because we are a company on a mission to create change, and where better to start than by aiding our indigenous communities,” the brand explained. The new location will partner with local charities and brands to create job opportunities for Aboriginal people.

Mr Charlie’s caused a stir when it launched in 2022 for its resemblance to a certain famous fast food chain, with its red and yellow colour scheme. But instead of burgers and fries, Mr Charlie’s offers plant-based twists like their popular “Frowny Meal Not a Double Double.” The meal contains a Not a Double Double cheeseburger, 4 nuggets, fries and a drink.

Other favourites include the Not Chicken Nuggets, made with plant-based protein, and the Not a Double Double, featuring vegan cheese, pickles, onion, ketchup and mustard on an Impossible burger patty.

Whilst the food is plant-based, the founders say Mr Charlie’s is more of a social enterprise than just another vegan restaurant. Kim himself grew up eating a lot of fast food, but since getting married and having a kid, wanted to promote healthier options.

Read: Discover Fontana: Redfern’s Hidden Gem for Italian Cuisine

Stay tuned on Mr Charlie’s Instagram for updates on the new Redfern location leading up to the late September grand opening.

Published 6-September-2023

Violence Erupts at Redfern Oval Grand Final

A grand final day marred by violence on and off the field at Redfern Oval has prompted investigations by the Souths Juniors and NSW Police.

Read: Top Places for Brunch in Alexandria

On-field brawl mars end of A-Reserve Grand Final

A violent brawl broke out between players in the dying minutes of the A-Reserve Grand Final between the Redfern All Blacks and Alexandria Rovers at Redfern Oval on Sunday.

The fight erupted after a “dog shot” tackle in which a player went in with his arm swinging. Both teams then threw punches as the final whistle sounded.

Souths Juniors chief executive Luke Curry said bans would be handed out following an investigation into the on-field brawl. A hearing is likely to take place next week to ensure due process was followed.

Street brawl follows stadium violence

Hostilities appeared to continue off the field. At around 3:00 p.m, reports of another brawl prompted the police to rush towards Chalmers Street in Redfern. The call was to disperse a street brawl believed to involve a group of teenage girls who had attended the grand final.

According to a police statement, the brawl broke out after the crowd outside the stadium learned of the earlier incident.

Read: Major Waterloo Estate Renewal to Increase Affordable Home Development

A number of police units attended to disperse the crowd. One teenage girl was later presented to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital with a head laceration, but no other injuries were reported.

Police say inquiries into the circumstances around both brawls are ongoing.

Published 31 August 2023

Major Waterloo Estate Renewal to Increase Affordable Home Development

Did you know that the allocation for social and affordable housing at the $3-billion Waterloo Estate renewal project will be increased to 50 percent, from the previously planned 34 per cent? At least 15 per cent of the housing units will be dedicated to First Nations peoples.

Under the proposed renewal, a consortium of developers will transform the Waterloo Estate into a modern urban space featuring over 3,000 residences, along with commercial and community facilities. The consortium is set to be announced in 2024.

Plans Outlined

The Waterloo Estate initiative intends to replace the subpar living conditions currently experienced by tenants in Sydney’s inner-south suburb, offering them improved and more suitable housing options.

The redevelopment project comes in the wake of the escalating housing crisis, with more than 51,000 individuals languishing on the public housing waiting list in New South Wales.

Premier Chris Minns highlighted the urgency of addressing the substantial backlog of housing demand and emphasized the significance of this model for future urban development across Sydney.

Housing Minister Rose Jackson addressed concerns that increasing the affordable housing requirement might discourage private investment. She assured that the government had received positive feedback from potential partners who understood the administration’s priority to bolster social and affordable housing options.

Ms Jackson wrote:

“We are increasing the % of social and affordable homes at Waterloo South from 34% to 50%. That is a big increase – it means 500 hundred more homes for people who need them & 700 more than is currently at the site.
15% of these homes will be dedicated to Aboriginal people, helping FN folks stay on country.
We will build quality, accessible and sustainable homes that will last and be comfortable, safe places to live.
All residents will have a right to return (something they weren’t guaranteed before) – we are also improving comms with letters, texts, calls and an on-site connect office.
All residents will also be temporarily homed nearby so they stay in their community near support systems.
We are also rejecting the old broken system of concentrating poor and disadvantaged people in massive towers and estates. No more shoving people off to the side. Mixed tenure is internationally recognised as the best model to deliver the best outcomes for residents and great communities for our cities.”

Some Residents Oppose Demolition

However, not all residents are fully on board with the redevelopment plans. Some long-term residents of the existing housing estate have expressed opposition to the demolition of their homes and the planned changes.

Karyn Brown, a resident of the Waterloo Estate since 1999, asserted that her unit was in good condition and contested the idea that the buildings were beyond repair. Whilst acknowledging the necessity of housing improvements, Ms Brown and other residents were cautious about the transition to new housing and the management changes that might accompany it.

Local MP Ron Hoenig’s comments about the deteriorating conditions of the current buildings and the need for renewal faced backlash from residents who felt their living conditions were being unfairly characterized as “squalor.”

Whilst debates and concerns persist among residents, the overarching goal of alleviating housing shortages and improving living conditions remains a central focus of the initiative. The government plans to continue working with consortium partners to finalize details and move the project forward in the coming months.

The NSW Government’s commitment to addressing the housing crisis through the Waterloo Estate renewal project is a significant step toward providing better housing opportunities for the community.

Published 23-Aug-2023