Connecting Through Change
Connecting Through Change (CTC) is our dedicated domestic and family violence (DFV) programme. It offers both group work and specialist case management. The programme is a vital pathway for women to step away from violence and walk toward stability, healing and empowerment. For some, CTC is the first step after leaving violence. For others, it’s a space to return to when needed, acknowledging that healing isn’t always linear.
Our therapeutic group programme creates a space to pause, reflect and connect. During sessions, women explore the dynamics of DFV, trauma recovery, boundary-setting and rebuilding self-worth. They share their stories, find solidarity, and begin to plan a different future. In addition to the Term 2 cohort attending the programme, another 33 women were supported with tailored case management to help them navigate the complexities of DFV.
Alongside groupwork, CTC provides specialist case management that is client-led, individualised and holistic. Violence does not occur in isolation; it affects housing, finances, health, safety and wellbeing.
Case managers provide help in the following ways:
Safety first: tailored safety plans, police liaison, AVO support
Housing and stability: social housing advocacy, crisis accommodation, sustaining tenancies to prevent homelessness
Health and recovery: access to trauma-informed counselling, assistance with hospital and mental health systems, brokerage for medication and essentials
Financial safety: access to the Escaping Violence Payment programme, crisis payments, food and transport vouchers, challenging debts linked to financial abuse.
Legal and systems navigation: providing support in court, referral to family law or immigration support
Case Studies:
One woman arrived after enduring escalating violence with nowhere safe to go. Within hours, our team secured emergency accommodation, accessed crisis payments, and wove therapeutic activities into her casework to ease her anxiety. Today, she is settled in long-term housing and planning her future with confidence.
A mother fleeing interstate violence was turned away by services at capacity. Our case managers advocated for safe accommodation, provided a safe phone and crisis brokerage. Today, she and her children are securely housed. She plans to join the group programme when she feels ready.
CTC shows what becomes possible when women are met with both immediate practical assistance and pathways for long-term healing. The programme equips women with tools, connection, and confidence to move forward on their own terms.