Our Moorditj Bidi Team
Meet Michelle Kelly, a proud Yamatji Yorga and now our acting coordinator in our Moorditj Bidi program.
Moorditj Bidi (Strong Path) is a rapid-rehousing program for yorgas and koolangka. It offers a flexible Family Domestic Violence (FDV) and culturally informed approach to allow djookians, with or without koolangka, to successfully transition from crisis accommodation to secure tenancies in the private rental market by providing substantial subsidies toward the bond and rent.
” It’s all about getting the women into private rentals, to provide a safe and secure home for them and their children.
” We are an outreach program, so we go out to the houses, support the family, we advocate for them, we liaise with other services and we just walk alongside them.
“Yeah, just strengthen them to rebuild their lives with dignity.”
For Michelle, stepping into the role allowed her to pursue her passion.
” I’ve got a lot of passion to help women that, have been through the FDV. I have lived experience too, which drove me into this role.”
The program has seen a lot of success, and is a reminder to everyone that with the right support, restarting your life is possible. For many in the program, success can seem far away, especially when it comes to Family and Domestic Violence. Michelle tells us its all about being able to guide clients to make the right decisions, and that rebuilding their lives are the core foundation of the program, even if this is not a linear journey.
” Helping them (clients) to produce better outcomes for themselves and their children, and rebuild their lives. It can happen with the right support.”
Michelle says her favourite part about working for the program has not only been to see clients succeed and achieve their goals, but to hear their stories. She also reminds us that even someone choosing to restart and seek help is a win to be celebrated.
” It’s always good to… …to hear people’s different stories and when you have your little wins, we celebrate them wins.
” And other times we’re not so successful, but then we can bring women back into refuge and look at starting all over again.”
” It’s satisfying to know that you have helped to support someone along their journey.”
To read more about our FDV programs and support services head to:FD Services and Support
Here’s how to seek Wooree Miya support
Referral to Wooree Miya is generally made via telephone crisis referral agencies such as:
- Crisis Care (08) 9223 1111
- Women’s DV Helpline (08) 9223 1188
- In an emergency always contact the police on 131 444, or the ambulance on 000