NSW Vigil
Hope + Heal: Advocating for Change
Hope + Heal has been and continues to be a leading advocate for survivors of domestic and family violence. For seven years, we played a pivotal role in organizing the NSW Vigil Collective, hosting annual vigils on International Elimination of Violence Against Women’s Day to honor the lives of women and children lost to domestic homicide. These gatherings not only paid tribute to victims but also raised critical awareness about the prevalence of domestic violence and the urgent need for change.
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However, our advocacy extends far beyond the vigil. We are dedicated to driving systemic change, amplifying survivor voices, and working alongside policymakers and community organizations to improve support services, legal protections, and workplace policies for women affected by violence.
Our Key Advocacy Initiatives:
Judicial & Legal Advocacy
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• Provided expert insights on survivor experiences at Federal Circuit and Family Court judicial training, in collaboration with the National Judicial College of Australia.
• Contributed to policy and law reform submissions, advocating for trauma-informed approaches to improve justice outcomes for women and children.
Community Action & Public Awareness
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• Organized vigils and awareness campaigns in collaboration with DVNSW, Full Stop Australia, Settlement Services International and Muslim Women Australia and other key agencies to honor victims and drive public discourse.
• Engaged in media and public speaking to shed light on domestic violence, share survivor stories, and push for stronger legislative protections.
Workplace & Systemic Reform
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• Successfully lobbied the Department of Health to enhance workplace policies for employees experiencing domestic violence.
• Collaborated with industry leaders to strengthen legal frameworks and expand resources for survivors and their families
Hope + Heal: Empowering Through Healing & Action
Hope + Heal is a collective of trauma-informed professionals committed to empowering survivors through evidence-based tools and holistic healing practices. Grounded in both clinical expertise and lived experience, we provide compassionate, transformative support to help women heal, rebuild, and thrive.
Through advocacy, education, and direct support, we continue to fight for a future where all women are safe, heard, and empowered.
#HealingHearts #AdvocacyForChange #HopeAndHeal
Each year, we gather to honour the lives of women and their children who have been killed by domestic homicide.
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This event is attended by leaders in our community who stand along side each other in solidarity.
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More videos here
Vigil Videos
2023 names of women who have died over the past 12 months - we will not forget you​
2022 names of women who have died over the past 12 months - we will not forget you
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2021 Online Vigil