1 in 4 Australian women have experienced intimate partner violence.

In parts of South-West Victoria, including Warrnambool, Portland, Moyne and Corangamite, rates of family violence are higher than the state average.

These are not just numbers — these are women in our streets, neighbourhoods, and friendship circles. Many are left with trauma, unsafe housing, and few places to turn.

Why This Group Exists

Right now, there is no women’s group in our region for those who have experienced violence and abuse and are ready for the next step — the stage after crisis, when it’s time to rebuild, grow stronger, and create a new future...

Our region has wonderful agencies doing vital, life-saving crisis work — keeping women safe, helping them escape violence, and holding perpetrators to account through programs such as Men’s Behaviour Change.

But government-funded services can only do so much. Having worked in community services for nearly 30 years, I know these teams are working at full capacity, with waiting lists for group programs when they’re available.

That’s where Cloud House Therapies comes in.

What We’re Doing

We run an 8-week empowerment group that helps women:

This is not a crisis or rescue service — it’s about picking up the pieces, regaining strength, and creating hope for a brighter, safer future.

Why We Need Your Help

Our next group starts September — and we need community support to keep it free for women who can’t afford it.

We’re raising $3,685 to cover:

3 sponsored places: $400 each

1 half sponsorship: $200

Books & materials: $350

Mural & art supplies: $200

Co-facilitator training: $700

Resources for facilitators: $500

Who We Are

I’m Angela Seran Blue Aerth, a qualified therapist with decades of experience supporting women, families, and communities in South-West Victoria.

My co-facilitator, Kelly, is also a qualified community services professional. She has volunteered every hour, even turning down paid shifts, to help make this group possible. I want to be able to pay for her formal training as facilitator of the program -and her time.

How You Can Help

Every dollar you give directly funds a woman’s place in the group, her learning materials, or the tools we use to help her heal and thrive.

When you donate, you’re not just funding a program — you’re changing a life, building safer communities, and giving women and children a chance at a future free from violence.

Donate today — because safety, healing, and empowerment should never be out of reach.