The money will be used to construct four self-contained units and a central hub to provide tailored support for women and children escaping domestic violence.

One of the most significant advantages of the new centre will be privacy said Women's Shelter Armidale manager Carolyn Burgess.

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"At the moment we have what is called 'congregate living' which means everybody is in together basically - with a shared bathroom and a shared everything," Ms Burgess said.

"I had a client say to me 'there's no privacy, I can't even cry' and that really gets you.

"The more modern approach is to have a 'core and cluster' model which is what this pilot is a transition to.

"We have been working towards this for a long time and the Member for the Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has been incredibly supportive."

Mr Marshall said the new expanded state-of-the-art refuge would provide secure housing and specialist services.

"Domestic and family violence is a scourge in our community and this project will build on existing services to help women and children live free from fear," he said.

"Armidale's participation in the 'core and cluster' model will involve families being housed in self-contained units around a central office offering specialist services and support."

Mr Marshall said this approach will provide people with personal space and security to heal with the assistance of specialist services.

"It's also a wonderful reward and boost for the staff and volunteer committee who have toiled away for years, providing a wonderful service to our most vulnerable in the existing refuge," Mr Marshall said.

"When women make the brave decision to leave a violent home, we must ensure they have access to appropriate supports and resources to do so as safely as possible.

Mr Marshall recognised the contribution the Women's Shelter Armidale (WSA) and public housing provider Homes North have made to supporting women and children fleeing violence.

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"I am very pleased the State Government is harnessing the experience of these important local organisations and partnering with them to deliver the Core and Cluster project," he said.

"WSA has been operating in Armidale since 1977 and now services Guyra, Uralla and Walcha regions. In 1990 the Women's Shelter moved into its current premises, where for the last 32 years it has provided safety and comfort to those experiencing this terrible and often dangerous situation.

"I am confident, by participating in this pilot, the capabilities of both WSA and Homes North will be enhanced so they can successfully continue this work for the future.

Plans for the development will be completed by the end of this year, Mr Marshall said, with construction of the new refuge expected to commence in the first half of next year.

"I welcome this much needed boost to domestic violence services in Armidale and think long term it will be a support for women and children from across the entire region," he said.

The funding announcement was made during Homelessness Week (August 1-7 )

In Australia there are over 116,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night.

Homelessness Week aims to raise awareness of the impact of homelessness on Australia via national and local community events, including providing information on the importance of housing as a solution and educating communities on how they can make a difference.

The main cause of homelessness for women and children is family breakdown and domestic violence.

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