The lack of opportunity to establish financial independence – whether that’s through accessible employment or study – can make it extremely difficult (and dangerous) to leave abuse environments. Mettle is a social enterprise that employs women who have experienced homelessness because of domestic and family violence, helping equip them with the skills required to secure and maintain employment and in turn, safe and stable housing. "With a stable income, nurturing training, and support in accessing safe housing, we're able to prevent women from returning to homelessness or their abuser" says Bronwyn Bate, Co-Founder of Mettle.https://www.mettlegifts.com/

If I’m going to take advice from anyone, it’s going to be from gold medallist and inclusion advocate, Matt Levy (OAM). I originally purchased his book for my daughter but have found it useful for my own future planning! The framework is constructive, illustrations engaging, and the tone supportive. While the book is promoted as a children’s book, Matt’s innovative approach can really be for anyone who has a dream. Matt summed it up when I asked about the purpose of Brandon Dreams Big: "It gives practical tips to overcome obstacles and challenges. We all need this." https://mattlevy.com.au/books

Earbus Foundation works to reduce the incidence and impact of middle ear disease on Aboriginal and at-risk children to below the WHO benchmark (4%). Earbus travels with a Doctor, Nurse and Audiologist to create an innovative ‘one-stop-shop’ for ear health. “Regular treatment with ongoing management and continuity of care is integral to better health outcomes,” says Dr Lara Shur, co-founder. Earbus currently works at over 100 locations including the Pilbara, Goldfields, Perth Metro, Southeast and Southwest regions of Western Australia, partnering with Aboriginal Medical Services, schools, kindergartens, Royal Flying Doctor Service and other not-for-profits, such as Starlight Children’s Foundation. https://www.earbus.org.au

Unsilenced Voices takes an innovative approach to its humanitarian work, using blockchain technology in programs and fundraising. Founded in 2017, the US-based not-for-profit empowers survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in multiple countries using financial assistance and community education. To do this, they’ve sought new approaches to both raise money for their programs and pay directly to abuse survivors. Founder Michelle Jewsbury says they are “revolutionising the humanitarian sector by integrating Web 3.0 technologies directly into our operations. For example, we accept cryptocurrency donations and have hosted NFT art competitions, enabling abuse survivors to earn income.” http://www.unsilencedvoices.org

Women and Mentoring run an early intervention program supporting women and non-binary people in contact with the legal system by matching them with a mentor. "We know that many in contact with the justice system come from trauma, disadvantage, victimisation and having experienced a range of complex issues that contributes to their vulnerability" says Tricia Ciampa, Executive Officer at WAM. "Through a mentoring relationship, women have someone in their corner, to rely on for guidance, to build up self-esteem, and hopefully help them find their place in society." Mentoring is a simple (yet effective) way to create positive change. https://www.womenandmentoring.org.au/about

Skyline Foundation supports students who may be at risk of leaving school early to support their families – dealing with financial hardship, emotional, family, and other challenges. "Skyline has a laser focus on supporting students to aspire to – and achieve – academic dreams they did not know were possible” says Katrina Reynen OAM.The program involves wrap-around support services including financial assistance for school related costs, counseling, career advice, study skills and peer workshops. “Students model achievement in their schools which inspires others around them to do the same – causing a ripple effect of positive enablement.” https://skylinefoundation.org.au