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Overcoming Haymarket’s crisis accommodation closure
In early 2025, a series of significant building issues at The Haymarket Foundation’s crisis accommodation led to the difficult decision to temporarily close our doors.
A flooding event in the middle of the night, the discovery of asbestos, and expert engineering advice from our pro bono partners at Arup revealed multiple urgent safety concerns, prompting the need for immediate alternative arrangements for residents and staff.
“Our first call was to reach out to all our sector partners, other crisis accommodation services, transitional housing services and ask, do you have any vacancies?” says Aliza Denenberg, Manager Client Services.
“ Our staff and sector partners did an amazing job under extremely challenging circumstances.”
“Thanks to our colleagues at Foster House, Matthew Talbot Hostel, Wesley Edward Eagar Centre, Mission Australia, the Women and Girls Emergency Centre and a local motel, we were able to move residents into safe accommodation as a first step. The City of Sydney Meals on Wheels Service also helped provide food, and our staff went above and beyond to provide wraparound support across all these locations. We couldn’t have done it without them,” Aliza adds.
Over the course of a month, Haymarket staff worked tirelessly to support each resident’s transition from temporary arrangements into long-term housing. This involved detailed individual assessments and collaboration with the team at Homes NSW, and other sector partners.
During the three-month closure, Haymarket staff also took the opportunity to plan for the future, forming working groups to identify ways to strengthen services and improve outcomes for residents.
“Our staff and sector partners did an amazing job under extremely challenging circumstances,” says Gowan Vyse, CEO of the Haymarket Foundation.
“Although closing our crisis accommodation service was a difficult decision, the experience highlighted the vital role of community and sector support. Thanks to this collective effort, we are now optimistic about securing a new building for The Haymarket Centre in the coming year.” Gowan adds.