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. Rooted in cultural practices and trauma-informed care, these programs offer safe, supportive spaces where individuals can rebuild confidence and rediscover their identity.
Moreover, with a strong focus on cultural connection, life skills, and intergenerational healing, participants are guided on a journey of personal growth and community strength. Each initiative not only addresses unique challenges, but also nurtures resilience and long-term independence.
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.
Oyster Care’s Healing Program stands out because of its three-tiered, culturally grounded approach. Each initiative offers a powerful, trauma-informed journey that blends emotional healing with cultural reconnection.
For example, Weaving Our Way to Wellbeing (WOWW) holds monthly workshops across 12 Aboriginal communities in NSW. These sessions create safe spaces for women to build life skills and reconnect with culture. As a result, participants who are facing trauma, mental health challenges, or homelessness can reclaim their sense of self and purpose.
Meanwhile, the Murungidyal Wellbeing Retreat (MWR) — named after the Wiradjuri word for “Healing Place” — offers a 6-week sanctuary for women aged 18+ who have experienced family violence. Through emotional, spiritual, and cultural support, participants are gently guided toward rebuilding their lives.
In contrast, Soulful Steps Healing (SSH) is a youth and family-focused initiative aimed at Aboriginal women aged 16–25. By nurturing leadership, cultural pride, and healthy relationships, SSH addresses intergenerational trauma while also uplifting the next generation.
Bridging the Gap: By combining traditional healing with trauma recovery, Oyster Care helps create stronger, more empowered communities.
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.
These programs are designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, youth, and families who have experienced trauma, mental health challenges, domestic violence, or homelessness. Consequently, they provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth.
Participants receive trauma-informed, culturally safe support through workshops, retreats, and mentoring. In addition, practical life skills and emotional support are provided to encourage long-term healing.
Our programs run across NSW in various communities, including North Parramatta, Dubbo, and Belmore. Each location is chosen for accessibility and cultural connection.
You can get involved by contacting our team directly, referring someone through a local service, or volunteering. Furthermore, downloadable forms are available on our website to make it easier.
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.
of young Australians report high levels of psychological distress
young people presented alone for homelessness support in 2022-23
connect@oystercare.org.au
“Bangang Daangang” united nearly 1,000 people to celebrate Aboriginal culture through art, performances, storytelling, and connection.
The Youth Program empowers young Aboriginal girls through cultural immersion, language revitalization, and wisdom from Elders.
Connecting young Aboriginal women with Elders fosters cultural pride, strengthens community ties, and preserves traditions for future generations.
Encouraging self-expression and creativity, these programs enhance fine motor skills and emotional well-being through art.
Focused on physical well-being and mobility, these programs include fun activities that improve strength, flexibility, and health.
The Technology Exploration Day Program empowers participants to build digital skills, explore assistive tech, and gain confidence.
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.
“When I first joined the program, I felt lost and disconnected from my culture and community. However, through the workshops, I found healing in traditional practices, built strong connections with other women, and learned practical life skills that helped me regain confidence. This program didn’t just help me heal — it gave me the power to believe in myself again. Now, I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned, supporting other women, and showing them that healing and hope are possible.”
Participant from Oyster Care
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.
You can volunteer your time and skills to directly support our programs and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.
Join us and drive positive change through our programs and campaigns! Stand with us in advocating for those who need their voices heard.
Have questions or want to support our cause? Fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
We believe in more than just providing disability services. We are passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their goals and live life to the fullest. Our dedicated team goes beyond simply meeting your needs.
5 Fleet St, North Parramatta NSW 2151
Unit 1/2 Kent St, Belmore NSW 2192
99 Wingewarra St, Dubbo NSW 2830