Having to turn 15 to 20 Women facing Domestic Violence Away a Day

Simone Patterson has long held a passion for helping those less fortunate, disadvantaged, or disabled. To pursue this dream she completed her Bachelor of Social Work and became a Counsellor, whilst also working with a number of welfare agencies doing case management, outside-home care, and myriads of other welfare work.

She took the risk of purchasing a property giving her personally a huge mortgage, so that she could provide a Refuge for women escaping domestic violence.  The Sanctuary is still privately funded. While domestic violence has increased, the number of refuges on the Gold Coast has decreased. Simone wants to increase the capacity of The Sanctuary to cater to more women and children that are being turned away daily. She also wishes to start the first men's refuge for domestic violence.