In response to the escalating domestic and family violence crisis, the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation has announced significant funding to enable StandbyU Foundation to purchase and refurbish a duplex on the Gold Coast — providing a new sanctuary for families in urgent need of safety and support.
This initiative comes as domestic and family violence rates reach record highs, representing a timely and critical intervention. The duplex will offer safe, stable, and immediate accommodation for vulnerable families and their pets who have nowhere else to turn.
The project exemplifies community collaboration, uniting key organisations dedicated to long-term solutions. StandbyU Foundation, known for its innovative safety technology and wraparound support, has partnered with yourtown to provide on-the-ground case management and support services for families during their stay. RizeUp has generously transformed each house into a warm, welcoming home, fully furnishing both residences to provide comfort and dignity from day one.
The refurbishment of the duplex has been made possible through the expertise and generosity of Icon Construction, who have worked closely with StandbyU to ensure the homes meet the specific needs of families experiencing abuse and violence.
This initiative is further underscored by recent accolades awarded to James Frizelle. In June 2025, he was honoured as the Queensland Community Philanthropist of the Year, recognising his transformational giving and efforts to connect charities and funders to meet urgent community needs. Additionally, Mr. Frizelle was named a Queensland Great, acknowledging his significant contributions to the state's development and his role in strengthening and shaping the Queensland community.
Chris Boyle, Founder of StandbyU Foundation, said:
“This partnership reflects the power of what’s possible when community, philanthropy, and frontline services come together. The generosity of the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation means more than just providing shelter — it means creating a space where families can feel safe, supported, and connected again. These homes are not just a place to stay — they’re a place to reconnect with hope, with community, and with the future.”
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A formal media event and opening will take place on site at 12.00pm - Monday, 7 July 2025, with representatives from the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation, StandbyU, yourtown, RizeUp, and Icon Construction in attendance.
To ensure privacy and confidentiality, we ask that if you would like to attend the media event please contact us directly for the address of the duplex.
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Quotes
James Frizelle - “There’s nothing more important than helping children and families feel safe. We’re proud to support this partnership with StandbyU as our way of standing up to domestic violence — by helping create a safe place where families can feel protected, supported, and start to rebuild their lives.”
Tracy Adams (CEO yourtown) - "We are proud to collaborate with James Frizelle Charitable Foundation, StandbyU and RizeUp to form a compassionate, coordinated response that recognises healing is a journey, and no family should have to walk that path alone."
Nicolle Edwards (Founder & CEO RizeUp) - ““At RizeUp, we’re proud to walk alongside StandbyU and yourtown — partners who share our deep commitment to supporting families impacted by domestic violence. Together, we’re creating safe spaces and helping vulnerable families rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”
Nick Gilbert (Icon, Construction Manager) - “It’s been a real privilege to be part of this project. At ICON Construction, we believe safe and stable housing is the foundation for change — and we’re proud to play a small part in creating a space where families impacted by domestic violence can feel secure, supported, and begin to heal.”
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About us:
StandbyU is an Australian owned not-for-profit social enterprise, committed to helping people stay safe through easy to use solutions that combine the strength of human connections with proven, innovative technologies.
Established in Brisbane in 2018, we provide end-to-end safety solutions to government, corporate organisations and individuals across Australia.
Our person-centred solutions support the safety of children, young people and adults experiencing domestic violence, lone workers, and people who choose independent living, and ensure each person's specific situation and needs are considered.
StandbyU embraces diversity and our team is made up of people from different backgrounds, experiences and skills. What they have in common is a commitment to providing the best service to the people we support in a caring, professional manner, and a desire to deliver positive outcomes for our partners, clients, customers, and the communities we work with.
Contact details:
For media enquiries, please contact:
Kirstie Minifie
0458 240 469
