Healing Programs

Oyster Care’s Healing Programs empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, youth, and families to heal from trauma, mental health challenges, domestic violence, and homelessness through culturally grounded practices and trauma-informed care. With programs focused on cultural connection, life skills, and intergenerational healing, Oyster Care creates a safe, supportive space for participants to rebuild confidence, strengthen identity, and achieve lasting independence.

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About Healing Programs

Oyster Care’s Healing Program supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, youth, and families in overcoming trauma, mental health challenges, domestic violence, and homelessness through three culturally grounded initiatives: Weaving Our Way to Wellbeing (WOWW) — monthly workshops empowering women with life skills and cultural connection, Murungidyal Wellbeing Retreat (MWR) — a 6-week intensive healing retreat for women affected by family violence, and Soulful Steps Healing (SSH) — a youth and family program promoting intergenerational healing and identity development.

 

What Makes it Unique?

Oyster Care’s Healing Program stands out with its three-tiered, culturally grounded approach: Weaving Our Way to Wellbeing (WOWW) empowers women through monthly mentorship and life skills workshops, Murungidyal Wellbeing Retreat (MWR) offers an intensive 6-week healing retreat for women affected by family violence, and Soulful Steps Healing (SSH) supports young women and their families with intergenerational healing and identity development — creating a powerful, trauma-informed journey that nurtures cultural reconnection, strength, and lasting empowerment.

Oyster Care’s Healing Program stands out with its three powerful, culturally grounded initiatives:

Weaving Our Way to Well-Being (WOWW): Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women of all ages facing mental health challenges, trauma, domestic violence, and homelessness, WOWW creates a safe, supportive space for healing through monthly workshops held across 12 Aboriginal communities in Western, Central West, and Far West NSW — fostering connection, cultural well-being, and self-determination.

Murungidyal Wellbeing Retreat (MWR): Named after the Wiradjuri word for “Healing Place,” this 6-week residential retreat offers a nurturing environment for women aged 18 and over who have experienced family violence. It blends cultural healing practices with emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being support — helping women reclaim their strength and cultural identity.

Soulful Steps Healing (SSH): A transformative early intervention program empowering young Aboriginal women aged 16-25, SSH addresses intergenerational trauma while promoting cultural identity, healthy relationships, and leadership development — breaking cycles of disadvantage and inspiring a new generation of resilient, empowered women.

By blending cultural wisdom, trauma-informed care, and community connection, Oyster Care’s Healing Program offers a truly unique, holistic path to healing, strength, and lasting empowerment.

Our Programs Sponsors .

Benefits of
Healing Programs

  • Cultural Reconnection and Identity Strengthening: Participants rediscover and embrace their cultural roots, fostering a sense of belonging, pride, and identity that supports emotional healing and personal growth.
  • Emotional and Mental Wellbeing: Through trauma-informed care, group support, and cultural practices, participants develop healthy coping mechanisms, build resilience, and regain confidence — promoting long-term emotional and mental wellness.
  • Empowerment and Life Skills Development: The programs equip women and youth with essential life skills — from communication and self-advocacy to leadership and relationship-building — empowering them to lead more independent, fulfilling lives.
  • Bridging the Gap: Oyster Care’s Healing Programs bridge the gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, youth, and families by blending cultural healing with trauma-informed care — fostering identity, resilience, and intergenerational empowerment for a stronger, healthier future.

     

Frequently Asked Questions. 

Got questions? Our FAQs break down how Oyster Care’s Healing Programs empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, youth, and families through cultural healing, trauma recovery, and life skills development — fostering resilience, reconnection, and lasting positive change.

At Oyster Care, our Healing Programs support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, youth, and families through cultural healing, trauma recovery, and life skills development — fostering resilience, cultural reconnection, and lasting empowerment.

Who can join the Healing Programs?

The programs are designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, youth, and families who have experienced trauma, mental health challenges, domestic violence, or homelessness — providing a safe, supportive space for healing and growth.

Each program offers a unique blend of cultural healing practices, life skills development, emotional support, and mentorship — empowering participants to rebuild confidence, strengthen their identity, and achieve lasting well-being.

We deliver the programs across 12 Aboriginal communities in Western, Central West, and Far West NSW, with residential retreats and community-based workshops designed to foster connection and healing close to home.

Reach out to Oyster Care directly for more information on joining or referring someone to the Healing Programs — we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Healing Programs Download

The scale of the problem

42.3%

of young Australians report high levels of psychological distress

The following statistics paint a concerning picture of the challenges facing young Australians today. These figures highlight the urgent need for increased support and resources to address the complex issues impacting their lives.

4 in 5

of young Australians report high levels of psychological distress

38,300

young people presented alone for homelessness support in 2022-23

Contact Us

Email Us

connect@oystercare.org.au

Call Us

(02) 9158 5444

The world is an Oyster, Let’s find your pearl.

Previous Events

A Day to Honour This
Year’s Australia Day

“Bangang Daangang” united nearly 1,000 people to celebrate Aboriginal culture through art, performances, storytelling, and connection.

Youth Program: Empowering Young Girls Through Land, Language, and Cultural Connection

The Youth Program empowers young Aboriginal girls through cultural immersion, language revitalization, and wisdom from Elders.

Connecting Young Aboriginal Women with Elders: Celebrating Aboriginal Culture

Connecting young Aboriginal women with Elders fosters cultural pride, strengthens community ties, and preserves traditions for future generations.

Upcoming Events

Success Stories

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Maya

Maya (not her real name) – Finding Strength and Self-Belief. Maya joined the program feeling disconnected from her culture and overwhelmed by trauma. Through cultural healing, life skills workshops, and supportive connections, she rebuilt her confidence and rediscovered her identity. Now, she’s empowered and uses her journey to inspire others on their path to healing.

1300 941 450

Together , We Can Create Impact and make a Difference.

Oyster Care Foundation’s success is fueled by strong partnerships with organisations and community groups. These collaborations are essential in delivering impactful programs, workshops, and advocacy initiatives to regional areas, a key priority for us.

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