Background Rachel*, a 49-year-old woman, found herself in a difficult financial situation following an injury that left her unable to work in early childhood development. She worked on a casual basis and was not entitled to sick leave or annual leave. The increasing cost of living was having a devastating impact on Rachel, who often…

Background Lena*, an Afghan immigrant who experienced family violence and financial abuse, experienced huge challenges when her ex-partner wrongly used her small daycare business income to get two car loans from a car finance company. The loans were taken out in Lena’s name without showing she could afford them. Some of her gold jewelry had…

Background Ruby*, a 36-year-old mother of four, has endured a long history of family violence and financial hardship, all while managing the health challenges of her youngest child. Originating from the Republic of Congo in 2006 into an arranged marriage with a man 14 years older than her, Ruby’s life in Australia started with hope…

Background Vincent*, a 56-year-old, faced life-changing challenges after an accident which required him to leave his job as a Alcohol and Other Drugs counsellor. He was injured in a fire, sustaining 3rd degree burn injuries to 48% of his body, leaving him with a fused mouth and an inability to walk or move. With no…

Background During 2023-24, South East Community Links (SECL) collaborated with WHISE (Women’s Health in the South East) to empower girls and women from the Burmese and Rohingya communities. This initiative aimed to educate them about their sexual and reproductive health rights, addressing a critical gap to help prevent violence against women. The Burmese women were…

Overview Sanam* and her family were forced to leave Afghanistan after the fall of Kabul in 2021. The 28-year-old arrived in Australia in 2022 with her child and husband after being granted humanitarian visas. She was married at a young age, left school and was unable to pursue further education. She faced literacy and language…

Overview Kirra, a 24-year-old Aboriginal woman, faced challenges arising from a living situation that perpetuated her trauma and severe mental health issues. The hostile environment at her temporary residence with a friend’s family led to heightened depression, anxiety, and thoughts of self-harm. In her time of need, Kirra was directed to South East Community Links…

Background In May 2022, South East Community Links (SECL) consulted with 40 members of the local Afghan community to identify practical skills that could serve as a pathway to employment. Through these discussions, sewing emerged as a shared interest among the group. Subsequently, efforts were made to harness this interest as a means to foster…

Background In 2023, SECL conducted a community consultation involving more than 70 diverse men and boys to explore their unique perspectives on identity, values, gender roles, and violence against women. The findings were compiled in a report, which emphasised the need for trust-building approaches, positive role models, and engaging recreational activities to prevent violence against…