After months of planning, renovating, and redecorating, Indigenous non-profit REDI.E opened much-needed crisis accommodation in Coonamble on Friday 24 October.

Walaaybaa-Li-Burrula has three air-conditioned bedrooms, with two double beds and a bunk bed for the kids, as well as an office, play room, lounge room and bathroom.

It will also serve young people and families in from surrounding shires including Walgett and Brewarrina.

REDI.E Youth and Family Worker Michaela Fineran said homelessness can happen for all types of reasons, from domestic and family violence to cost of living and mental health and stability. 

"Homelessness is a wicked problem that requires innovative solutions which is why REDI.E applied for the Homelessness Innovation Fund to support Coonamble and to look after our own," she said.

Along with safety features like lockable bedroom doors, security screens and cameras covering all entry and exit points, the developers aimed for a 'homey' feel.

A smoking ceremony marking the opening of the crisis units. [IMAGE: Kelsi Davis]

There are paintings on the walls, a stocked linen cupboard and kitchen, a washing machine and dryer, and even toys and games for the kids on the soft play mat.

If there is an after-hours need for housing, a Coonamble-based, on-call REDI.E worker will help set them up in their temporary home.

The service accommodates stays up to six weeks to help get them back on their feet.

They was no temporary emergency accommodation available in the town before the service opened.

They say the facility will be more than a roof over heads.

Caseworkers will be able to help with housing and rental applications, referrals to other services and budgeting.

After the walkthrough, anyone who attended the grand opening could grab a slushie, and a steak or rissole sandwich and watch Sonic 3 with friends and family at a movie night.