We all need a home.

On average, Ballarat police respond to five family violence incidents every day. The survivors of these incidents often have nowhere to go, living rough on streets or couch-surfing with friends.

The real rate is even higher, according to Victoria Police Superintendent Jenny Wilson, who believes “we have a way to go before we reach a peak in reporting.”

Now, more than ever, it’s essential we have enough affordable and accessible housing for those who need it most.

Platinum Institute Australia created ‘Homes to Help’ as a simple fix to make sure everyone has a place to call home. Platinum students construct transportable homes and break-out rooms as part of their coursework and with support from our suppliers and not-for-profit partners, we supply these low-cost, high-quality residences to emergency housing providers to house at-risk people escaping family violence.

Through this project, our students – many of whom have experienced violence or disadvantage at home – also learn pro-social skills in a safe and caring environment. An aim of this program is to end generational abuse by changing young peoples’ ideas about the right ways to treat other people.