From launch to lift-off – one year at the Glen for Women

*The themes in this Media Release may be distressing. The names in this Media Release have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.

Connection. Truth telling. Hope.

These are just some of the words used to describe the momentum the Glen for Women transition program has built since launching last year.

After establishing their homebase on Darkinjung Country in Wyong, NSW, following over $2.7m of funding from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC), the Glen for Women Transition House officially welcomed its first clients in May 2025.

Upon its opening, the program was the first of its kind – a dedicated, Aboriginal community-controlled transition centre – which supports both Indigenous and non-Indigenous females.

The house offers safe housing for participants to obtain job-skills training, employment opportunities and social support services, focusing on Indigenous culture through dance, visits to significant sites, traditional cooking, storytelling and craftsmanship.

This holistic approach fosters a sense of communal belonging, with a strong emphasis on connection to land, ancestry and Indigenous identity. Clients are also encouraged to draw inspiration from the lived experiences of Aboriginal Elders who have also overcome substance abuse problems.

And one year on – The Glen for Women has been nothing short of a success.

To date, 26 clients have taken part in the program. 70% have found suitable housing, 86% have completed a certificate and a total of 7 women have secured ongoing employment.

The Glen program also won the 2025 ‘First Nations Health Award’ at the 2025 Primary Care Quality and Innovation Awards, which recognises outstanding organisations, clinics and service providers.

The stories that move through the centre are deep, and at times, challenging. However, the faith and resilience displayed by the women is incredibly moving.

KP* is a Wiradjuri woman who lived in addiction for 11 years. Addiction stripped her of her driver’s license, home and even her loved ones. Her mental and physical health suffered, as well as her spirit.

“The Glen for Women didn’t just help me heal; it held me when I couldn’t hold myself. It loved me back to life. It helped me understand who I am, and how to reconnect with culture.

“Being in transition has given me a safe place. I am rebuilding my life, healing relationships, working and getting closer to getting my driver’s licence back. Because of this incredible place, I am no longer just surviving, I am living a life that finally feels worth living,” said KP.

TTW* was born and raised on Darkinjung Country in Umina Beach. For years, alcohol and drugs felt like her only escape, acting as her friends, while slowly destroying her.

“When I came to the Glen, I knew this was my last chance. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with open arms. I felt safe and seen. The staff here didn’t just support me, they believed in me.

“I am more than my addiction, more than my past and more than this disease. Through the Glen, I found culture, connection, and a sense of belonging I never knew I needed.

“Today, I am in transition. I am building something I never thought was possible just 18 weeks ago. I’m studying my Certificate IV in Community Services, and for the first time in my life, I feel hope. I feel excited about my future. And most importantly, I finally want to live” said TTW.

ILSC Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Joe Morrison, said it is incredibly special for the ILSC to learn about the admirable achievements of its project partners.

“The Glen for Women transition program is a beacon of hope for Indigenous women. Hearing some of the women’s testimonies is both impactful and inspiring.

“The ILSC is proud to have played a part in the Glen for Women’s journey and wishes all its participants many successes for the future,” said Mr Morrison.

The Glen for women is a breakthrough. There is no doubt the organisation will leave a legacy, bringing positive change to thousands of lives.