What Works? A qualitative exploration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healing programs that respond to family violence

This report is the second publication from the research project “An exploration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healing programs that respond to domestic and family violence and sexual assault”. The original research design was adapted, as it was directly impacted by the COVID-19 lockdowns. The final research design included a national symposium with over 60 stakeholders from every state and territory. The researchers also held yarning circles with workers and clients of healing programs from across the continent both in person and online, and individual interviews with participants from Victoria, Queensland, the Northern Territory and New South Wales. The findings provide further evidence on the effectiveness of healing programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing and/or using family violence. This report highlights the urgent need for sustainable long-term funding for healing programs conceived of and led by First Nations people.