Safe Phones, Legal Aid and Housing Forum

31st March – 2nd April 2026

This week at Fletcher Street Cottage we were reminded of the importance of collaboration, listening to the voices of people who access our services and the incredible work of our team and community.

Highlights

• DV Safe Phones visited Fletcher Street Cottage to speak with staff about our service and how we can further support people experiencing domestic violence. DV Safe Phones refurbish donated mobile phones and provide them to support services, complete with a working phone and new SIM card, helping people stay connected and safe during difficult times.
• One of our participants shared this reflection with us this week: “I have learned in my travels people make up the places, and the best thing about Byron Bay are the people I have met at Fletcher Street Cottage. I realised that what worked so well with so many people coming into a small space is that the staff treat people as individuals, not cases.” Feedback like this reminds us why our approach, focused on dignity, respect and individual support, is so important.
• On Thursday, a participant found an injured lorikeet on the road outside the cottage and brought it in for help. Sean, our security guard, set up a box with food and kept the bird safe until WIRES Northern Rivers arrived to collect it. It was an unexpected but lovely moment of care and kindness in the middle of a busy day.
• Art Space, held every Thursday in the courtyard, was extra busy during the holiday week. Participants generously donated books, pencils, paints and other materials, helping to build the creative space and making the experience even more enjoyable for everyone involved.
• Aarn from the Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre visited Fletcher Street Cottage on Tuesday, as he does on the last Tuesday of each month, providing valuable legal advice and support for participants needing assistance.
• Representatives from Homes NSW and the End Rough Sleeping Collaboration held a forum with participants and staff to discuss barriers to accessing temporary accommodation. Many important issues were raised, highlighting the importance of listening directly to community members when working toward solutions.

‍About Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, providing essential support for people experiencing hardship. Our services include nutritious meals, access to showers and laundry, advocacy, health and wellbeing programs, and creative initiatives like Women’s Space, all designed to help people move toward stability and self sufficiency. With the support of our volunteers, partners and donors, we continue to make a difference every day.