Albanese government pledges $2 million for Jewish House expansion
The Albanese Labor Government has announced a $2 million commitment to expand Jewish House, a well-established crisis response organisation in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. The funding will support the construction of 12 new self-contained transitional housing units, allowing the service to double its capacity to assist individuals and families in crisis.
Jewish House, based in Bondi, has been a key provider of services for people experiencing homelessness, mental health issues, and domestic violence for decades. Its holistic model includes case management, psychological support, and early intervention—making it a cornerstone of support in the region.
Jewish House in Bondi
Federal Member for Kingsford Smith, Matt Thistlethwaite, said the expansion would strengthen the community’s safety net. “Jewish House provides essential services for our most vulnerable community members, and this $2 million investment will ensure they can help even more people in need,” he said. “This expansion will double the capacity of Jewish House to deliver crisis support services and provide transitional housing for those experiencing homelessness or domestic violence.”
Labor candidate for Wentworth, Savanna Peake, echoed his remarks. “Jewish House has been supporting our Eastern Suburbs community for years, providing critical services to people when they need it most. This expansion will create 12 self-contained transitional housing units, giving people experiencing crisis a safe and stable environment while they rebuild their lives,” she said.
The funding will be delivered in accordance with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles. The announcement comes as Sydney grapples with rising housing stress and growing demand for crisis accommodation. Nationally, more than 122,000 Australians accessed homelessness services last year, with advocacy groups urging governments to invest in long-term and transitional housing rather than relying solely on emergency shelters.
Rabbi Mendel Kastel, CEO of Jewish House, welcomed the announcement, saying the new units will be trauma-informed and inclusive. He noted that the expansion will enable the organisation to meet the urgent needs seen daily across the community.
In February, the NSW government announced a commitment of $200,000 to Jewish House for the expansion of its vital community support services. That funding was specifically in response to a recent surge in antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish neighbourhoods and synagogues.
The announcement states that the pledge reflects the Albanese Government’s broader approach to addressing housing instability and supporting grassroots organisations that offer real-world solutions for those in crisis.
