DVassist has launched a new free online women’s group designed to support recovery, healing and connection for women living in regional, rural and remote Western Australia following experiences of family and domestic violence.
The online group, which begins on 11 February 2026, is DVassist’s first online group program and is made possible by funding from the 100 Women Grant.
The program will run weekly during WA school terms and is delivered via a secure online platform.
Importantly, the program responds to a need that has been consistently identified by women living in regional, rural and remote WA over several years.
DVassist Chief Executive Officer Ella Ailenei said the online group was developed after repeated feedback from women who wanted accessible, ongoing recovery support that did not require travel or compromise privacy.
“Through consultations, counselling feedback and surveys, women living in regional and remote communities have been telling us for some time that they want safe, ongoing group support that they can access from where they live,” Ms Ailenei said.
“This program has been kept firmly in sight as a priority until the right funding became available. The support from 100 Women has allowed us to respond directly to what women themselves have identified as needed.”
Ms Ailenei said women in regional, rural and remote areas often face barriers to recovery support, including distance, limited local services and concerns about confidentiality.
“Alongside our phone counselling services, this online group offers another safe and accessible way for women in regional and remote areas to engage in trauma-informed recovery support. It reflects our commitment to listening to women and designing services that respond to their realities.”
The group provides a structured, trauma-informed space facilitated by experienced DVassist counsellors. Participation is voluntary, and women are supported to engage in ways that feel right for them.
A DVassist counsellor facilitating the group, Dorte, said the program was designed with the needs of the women as well as flexibility, safety, empowerment and connection at its core.
“Women have told us they want spaces that feel supportive, instead of overwhelming, and where they can choose how they participate,” Dorte said.
“This group offers practical tools for wellbeing alongside peer connection, recognising that recovery looks different for everyone and that safety and choice are essential.”
Topics covered throughout the program may include self-care and wellbeing, self-regulation practices, physical and mental health, healthy relationships and boundaries, navigating services, financial independence, and maintaining wellbeing during court or other system processes. Introductory sessions are offered to help participants feel comfortable using the online platform.
All participants complete a confidential intake and assessment process to help ensure the group is safe, supportive and appropriate for their needs.
The program is free and open to women aged 18 and over living in regional, rural or remote Western Australia.
For more information or to register, visit: https://dvassist.org.au/our-services-and-programs/client-services/online-groups/
