ANROWS study affirms importance of Indigenous healing programs in combatting family violence
MEDIA RELEASE | Tuesday 23 April 2024
New research from ANROWS, under The National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032, provides further evidence on the effectiveness of healing programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing and/or using domestic, family and sexual violence.
The report, guided by Indigenous-centred research methodologies and qualitative design, underscores the urgent need for sustainable, long-term funding for healing programs, conceived and led by First Nations peoples. It advocates for a transformative shift towards holistic approaches deeply rooted in trauma-aware and healing-informed practices.
Healing work when designed and implemented with Indigenous leadership and cultural sensitivity, can contribute to Closing the Gap Target 10, by diverting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people away from incarceration.
The key benefits of sustainably-funded healing programs include:
- Fostering shared understanding of trauma, healing, and holistic approaches within communities.
- Establishing strong networks, partnerships, and collaborations to facilitate continuity of care.
- Building trust and enabling successful engagement by meeting community expectations and ensuring safety.
- Meeting the needs of LGBTIQASB+ people or people with a disability.
Bronwyn Carlson, Distinguished Professor at Macquarie University, emphasised,
“With proper funding, healing programs can respond holistically and effectively to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence. This study serves as a call for policymakers to prioritise sustained investment in community.”
Dr Tessa Boyd-Caine, CEO at ANROWS, said,
“Healing programs addressing family violence understand that healing is not only about individuals but also about challenging colonial legacies and structures. Investing in healing programs not only advances the goals of the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children but also resonates with the broader objectives of the Closing the Gap targets.”
For further information please contact:
Elliott Holohan
Media & Strategic Communications Specialist
[email protected]
0411 507 542
Read the research summary or download the research report.
About ANROWS
Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety Limited (ANROWS) is a not-for-profit independent national research organisation.
ANROWS is an initiative of Australia’s National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010–2022. ANROWS was established by the Commonwealth and all state and territory governments of Australia to produce, disseminate and assist in applying evidence for policy and practice addressing violence against women and their children. ANROWS is the only such research organisation in Australia.