The Jannawi Family Centre Opens Its Doors in Summer Hill

The Jannawi Family Centre has opened its doors in Sydney’s Summer Hill, with ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant, Revesby Workers’ Club Vice President Christine Butters and other special industry guests attending the official opening celebration on the evening of 15 February. 

Established in 1978, Jannawi is a child protection service provider and a national leader in advocacy for the needs of children who have experienced trauma.  

“Holistic support, that lets children understand and manage their emotions while also addressing practical issues like school, can set them and their families on a positive path to a brighter future,” reads the organisation’s website.  

Now, that support is set to be made even more readily available to those in need, thanks to a generous $25,000 donation from Revesby Workers’ Club, which was announced at the opening event for the new Jannawi Family Centre.  

Revesby Workers’ Vice President Christine Butters said it was an honour to support Jannawi.  

“One of our key reasons for supporting different groups is to look at what's important in our community and certainly families are our most important community members,” Christine said.  

“Centres and programs that work on domestic violence and childhood abuse have a lot to offer the community. So, we felt it was important to support this Jannawi Family Centre even though they are not just within our local area.” 

Jannawi Chair Helen Rogers said they meet people at their most vulnerable who are feeling scared and traumatised.  

“We support them without judgment, with a great deal of respect and care until they feel confident, empowered and of course safe. We see deep change that humbles us, inspires us and instils such gratitude and family trust to guide and support them, and we're honoured to see lives transformed,” Helen said.  

Speaking at the Jannawi Family Centre’s opening night, NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen said the centre was a special part of Sydney.  

“It has grown and flourished and become an essential service for our community,” Minister Haylen said.  

“The landmark Australian child maltreatment study published last year is a stark reminder of the incredibly important work that non-government organisations do,” Minister Haylen said. 

“It showed that during childhood, of the 8500 people surveyed, 32 per cent had experienced physical abuse, 28 per cent had experienced sexual abuse, and almost 40 per cent had lived in homes being exposed to family and domestic violence … the study also found that Australians who experienced that kind of treatment in their childhood have lifelong impacts.” 

Jannawi’s Director Biljana Milosevic said they have 60 dedicated volunteers. 

“When you think about community, it's about integrating and relating to everyone,” Biljana said. 

“It is a special feeling understanding the work that has occurred over 45 years and it is incredible to think about how many lives have been supported over that time.” 

ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant said it had been special hearing from such inspirational people who contribute so much to their community.   

“Jannawi does so much unbelievable work for those who need it most — vulnerable children — that’s why I’m so proud of Revesby Workers' Club donating $25,000 to contribute to this new centre here in Summer Hill,” she said.  

“Having once been on the board of the Jannawi Family Centre several years ago, it is something close to my heart and I encourage all clubs to consider making a donation to such a worthy cause.”