Gunnedah's new crisis housing has hit a major bump in the road, but Jobs Australia is still striving to get it open this year.
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A fortnight ago, the decision was made to demolish the existing dwelling because of structural issues, and deconstruct a purpose-built house on the site instead.
The job agency's original plan was to renovate, which would mean the house would be ready to open mid-year.
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Jobs Australia's Tracey Reid said she was "gutted" when she found out their initial plans had to go out the window.
"I was pretty gutted when I found out it was going to be demolished, but I got up the next day and thought, 'It's a new day - let's get on with it', and we've had so much support from Gunnedah," she said.
"We're now going to build a purpose-built home specifically for crisis accommodation, which in a way is good.
"We have worked with Moree and Narrabri in the past so I'll be working with them on design and also women who have used crisis accommodation."
The next hurdle is finding out whether the change of plans will affect the agency's ability to utilise almost $200,000 awarded to the project through the state government's Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Ms Reid said Jobs Australia would push on and deliver on their promise, covering any shortfall.
"Jobs Australia will have the house built and is still committed to the project. This hasn't dampened the board's or the CEO's or my spirits at all," she said.
"With current figures on domestic violence, with COVID, it's really a necessity for Gunnedah.
"I'm going to try to make this sustainable for Gunnedah and that's why I'm trying to include the community."
The site will feature CCTV cameras, among other security features, and a pet-friendly backyard.
Ms Reid is looking for anyone who might be able to offer a storage space free of charge to house the furniture already purchased for the crisis housing.
