What’s on
We run a range of programs and events - from informal drop-in groups to specialised domestic violence community support.
Browse our events calendar and learn more about our community programs. For more information contact us on (02) 4228 1499 or via the contact form.
Reclaim the Night Illawarra
Join us on Thursday the 30th October 2025 for Reclaim the Night Illawarra’s annual march up to the Wollongong Lighthouse.
Meet at 6:15pm at Andrew Lysaght Park (near WIN stadium), march begins at 6:45pm.
For more information, contact Lynelle on 02 4228 1499.
Safety and Equality go hand in hand. Stop violence against women.
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
Step & Connect
Join us each for a walk with the Women Illawarra community to meet, move, converse and connect. Each walk will have a feature a guest to speak on topics like AVO’s, Mental Health and Women’s Health.
This month we’ll hear from Anastasia, who facilitates a regular group (TeenZ Connect) a weekly program for local young people, who experience marginalisation, based on their gender diversity, neuro diversity and physical (dis)abilities to hang out in the comfy surround of Warrawong Library, make friends and be treated like any other young person.
This is a friendly walk. You can engage in the topic of choice or chat with new friends on any topic you choose.
Meet at Women Illawarra for a quick intro, then join us on a short or long course walk. At the end we will return to Women Illawarra where we can gather to share learnings and ask questions. Afternoon tea will be provided. Your presence, some walking shoes, hat and water are all that’s needed.
Please contact Lillian at Lillian@womenillawarra.org.au for information about upcoming programs
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
Rose Vigil: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Women Illawarra invite you to attend a vigil in McCabe Park Wollongong to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on Tuesday the 25th November 2025 at 1pm.
Women's rights activists have observed 25 November as a day against gender-based violence since 1981. This date was selected to honour the Mirabal sisters, three political activists from the Dominican Republic who were brutally murdered in 1960 by order of the country’s ruler, Rafael Trujillo (1930-1961).
A worldwide movement, this day represents an ongoing invitation to governments, international organisations as well as NGOs to annually join together and organise activities designed to raise public awareness of the issue of violence against women.
We will be holding a vigil to honour those lost to gendered violence in 2025. Join us to ensure that the voices of those who have been silenced do not go unheard.
#stopviolenceagainstwomen
Please join us. #stopviolenceagainstwomen #16Days2025
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
Step & Connect
Join us each for a walk with the Women Illawarra community to meet, move, converse and connect. Each walk will have a feature a guest to speak on topics like AVO’s, Mental Health and Women’s Health.
This month we’ll hear from Chloe, a current TAFE NSW mental health peer worker and counselling program coordinator on the topic of wellbeing, resilience and recovery. MORE INFO TBA
This is a friendly walk. You can engage in the topic of choice or chat with new friends on any topic you choose.
Meet at Women Illawarra for a quick intro, then join us on a short or long course walk. At the end we will return to Women Illawarra where we can gather to share learnings and ask questions. Afternoon tea will be provided. Your presence, some walking shoes, hat and water are all that’s needed.
Please contact Lillian at Lillian@womenillawarra.org.au for information about upcoming programs
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
What Women Want Fundraiser
Book your ticket today for What Women Want Illawarra!
Sun, 26 Oct, 11:30am - 3pm
The Grange Golf Club
Princes Highway, 10 Kembla Grange, NSW 2526
This fundraiser aims to make a real difference for women in need across our region in the Illawarra. To provide a place of acceptance, understanding and enjoyment.
What Women Want fundraises to support their chosen charities - this year, that's us at Women Illawarra and Dress for Success!
Book your ticket at https://events.humanitix.com/what-women-want-illawarra-fundraiser-2025?fbclid=IwY2xjawNBXhBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFFMEZIZlQzWlZUeGgwWHI0AR5Bx77QUbaHps0qZ2tDUZwYEsM6zjYxPlii92D0WSAZJJFHnkKj_SLGiyccRw_aem_dTi6FyrmrOMZoC5n2I7brA
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
Reclaim The Night Planning Meeting
Come to the Women's Centre on Thursday 16 October at 3:30 if you'd like to join the Reclaim The Night Committee in planning this year's event!
Please call 02 4228 1499 or email Lynelle at lynelle@womenillawarra.org.au to express your interest or find out more.
Shark Cage
The Shark Cage framework was developed by Ursula Benstead - a Psychologist and clinical supervisor with 25 years experience in complex trauma, family/domestic violence and sexual assault. The program is seeing success in Australia and overseas, with over 5000 professionals trained to deliver it.
SHARK CAGE is a human rights approach to empowerment and healing, designed to help women recognise their rights, rebuild self-worth, and develop strong boundaries in relationships.
Through engaging workshops and supportive group sessions, participants learn to identify unhealthy patterns in relationships, foster resilience and create a life free from abuse and control.
Take back your power and strengthen your own shark cage... because every woman deserves safety, respect, and freedom!
Spots are limited, register your interest to get on the list for the first available spot. email wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 4228 1499.
Step & Connect
Join us each for a walk with the Women Illawarra community to meet, move, converse and connect. Each walk will have a feature a guest to speak on topics like AVO’s, Mental Health and Women’s Health.
This month, we will walk with Julie - who runs the Writers Walking Group for South Coast Writers Centre. She will talk about inspiration and ideas, and we will walk together and chat about any subject including writing and the writing process.
This is a friendly walk. You can engage in the topic of choice or chat with new friends on any topic you choose.
Meet at Women Illawarra for a quick intro, then join us on a short or long course walk. At the end we will return to Women Illawarra where we can gather to share learnings and ask questions. Afternoon tea will be provided. Your presence, some walking shoes, hat and water are all that’s needed.
Please contact Lillian at Lillian@womenillawarra.org.au for information about upcoming programs
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
Mental Health First Aid Course
Women Illawarra is offering the Mental Health First Aid Australia Standard MHFA Course to community 2025. This is an internationally recognised course and a great addition to your resume! It will help you to help others in both professional and personal environments.
Course 2: 29th Sept - 2nd October - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Participation is limited to 12 persons per course. All participants must be aged 18 years or over.
Participants MUST attend all 4 sessions to attain their MHFA Australia Certification/Certificate.
The cost of the course will be on a sliding scale ($0 - $280), with discounts offered to women experiencing any financial barriers to attending.
The course is open to both the public and community organisations.
The Women's Patch
The Women’s Patch
The Women’s patch offers a beautiful space for learning and reflection, organic gardening and community workshops. If you are looking for a space to spend time in nature, dable in gardening, enjoy morning tea with other women, or just have a look around, drop in!
Morning tea and gardening supplies are provided
Please wear closed - toed shoes
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
The Women's Patch
The Women’s Patch
The Women’s patch offers a beautiful space for learning and reflection, organic gardening and community workshops. If you are looking for a space to spend time in nature, dable in gardening, enjoy morning tea with other women, or just have a look around, drop in!
Morning tea and gardening supplies are provided
Please wear closed - toed shoes
Reclaim The Night Planning Meeting
Come to the Women's Centre on Thursday 11 September at 3:30 if you'd like to join the Reclaim The Night Committee in planning this year's event!
You are welcome to join next month's meeting if you can't make it today!
Please call 02 4228 1499 or email Lynelle at lynelle@womenillawarra.org.au to express your interest or find out more.
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
The Women's Patch
The Women’s Patch
The Women’s patch offers a beautiful space for learning and reflection, organic gardening and community workshops. If you are looking for a space to spend time in nature, dable in gardening, enjoy morning tea with other women, or just have a look around, drop in!
Morning tea and gardening supplies are provided
Please wear closed - toed shoes
Step and Connect
STEP AND CONNECT on Tuesday September 2!
Together we will embark on a walk along the beach footpath and share questions, advice and knowledge to learn and grow together.
THEME TBA. Bring your own questions or feel free to listen in, stay on topic or wander as your heart desires.
We will start at 1.30pm at Women Illawarra, 170 Corrimal Street Wollongong, and after a chat we will go on a walk along the beach footpath. There will be a range of points along the way for you to turn around if you wish.
You are welcome to come along for a simple cuppa and opt out of the walk, if you prefer. The choice is yours.
Step and Connect is FREE, and any woman-identifying person is welcome to show up unannounced on the day, however we do appreciate if you register your interest by emailing Lillian@womenillawarra.org.au or calling 4228 1499.
If you know a woman who might benefit from this session, please pass the details on!
See you there!
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
Reclaim The Night Planning Meeting
Come to the Women's Centre on Thursday 14 August at 3:30 if you'd like to join the Reclaim The Night Committee in planning this year's event!
You are welcome to join next month's meeting if you can't make it today!
Please call 02 4228 1499 or email Lynelle at lynelle@womenillawarra.org.au to express your interest or find out more.
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
Women of Steel - Documentary Screening & Panel Discussion - 45 Years On
Presented by: Women Illawarra in collaboration with the film director of Women of Steel, Robynne Murphy.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness an important chapter in local history and join the conversation about justice and equality today.
Join us for a special screening of Women of Steel, a powerful Australian documentary that tells the inspiring story of a group of determined women who fought for the right to work in Wollongong’s steel industry. Spanning 14 years, their struggle against BHP in the 1980s is a testament to perseverance, comradeship, and the pursuit of equality.
This year marks the 45th anniversary of the Tent Embassy outside the Steelworks, when the campaign for Jobs for Women began. The screening will be followed by a brief panel discussion featuring the film's director Robynne Murphy and original Women of Steel featured in the film. This is a chance to reflect on the historic fight and its lasting impact on gender equality and workers' rights.
Celebrate the strength of these women, honour their legacy, and be inspired by their relentless pursuit of justice and equality.
Mental Health First Aid Course
Women Illawarra is offering the Mental Health First Aid Australia Standard MHFA Course to community 2025. This is an internationally recognised course and a great addition to your resume! It will help you to help others in both professional and personal environments.
Course 1: 7th July - 10th July - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Course 2: 29th Sept - 2nd October - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Participation is limited to 12 persons per course. All participants must be aged 18 years or over.
Participants MUST attend all 4 sessions to attain their MHFA Australia Certification/Certificate.
The cost of the course will be on a sliding scale ($0 - $280), with discounts offered to women experiencing any financial barriers to attending.
The course is open to both the public and community organisations.
Mental Health First Aid Course
Women Illawarra is offering the Mental Health First Aid Australia Standard MHFA Course to community 2025. This is an internationally recognised course and a great addition to your resume! It will help you to help others in both professional and personal environments.
Course 1: 7th July - 10th July - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Course 2: 29th Sept - 2nd October - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Participation is limited to 12 persons per course. All participants must be aged 18 years or over.
Participants MUST attend all 4 sessions to attain their MHFA Australia Certification/Certificate.
The cost of the course will be on a sliding scale ($0 - $280), with discounts offered to women experiencing any financial barriers to attending.
The course is open to both the public and community organisations.
Mental Health First Aid Course
Women Illawarra is offering the Mental Health First Aid Australia Standard MHFA Course to community 2025. This is an internationally recognised course and a great addition to your resume! It will help you to help others in both professional and personal environments.
Course 1: 7th July - 10th July - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Course 2: 29th Sept - 2nd October - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Participation is limited to 12 persons per course. All participants must be aged 18 years or over.
Participants MUST attend all 4 sessions to attain their MHFA Australia Certification/Certificate.
The cost of the course will be on a sliding scale ($0 - $280), with discounts offered to women experiencing any financial barriers to attending.
The course is open to both the public and community organisations.
Mental Health First Aid Course
Women Illawarra is offering the Mental Health First Aid Australia Standard MHFA Course to community 2025. This is an internationally recognised course and a great addition to your resume! It will help you to help others in both professional and personal environments.
Course 1: 7th July - 10th July - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Course 2: 29th Sept - 2nd October - 10am - 1.30pm each day
Participation is limited to 12 persons per course. All participants must be aged 18 years or over.
Participants MUST attend all 4 sessions to attain their MHFA Australia Certification/Certificate.
The cost of the course will be on a sliding scale ($0 - $280), with discounts offered to women experiencing any financial barriers to attending.
The course is open to both the public and community organisations.
Step and Connect
CANCELLED - STEP AND CONNECT on Tuesday July 1st!
Starting at Women Illawarra - 170 Corrimal St Wollongong then embark on the walk along the beach footpath with a range of turn around points for you to choose from.
Anastasia from Wollongong Youth Centre will be our guest speaker and will be speaking on Gender identity and The Teenz Connect Program at The Wollongong Youth Centre.
This is a friendly walk, you can engage in the topic of choice or chat with new friends on any topic you choose.
Step and Connect is FREE, and any woman-identifying person is welcome to show up unannounced on the day, however we do appreciate if you register your interest by emailing Lillian@womenillawarra.org.au or calling 4228 1499.
Restorative Yoga
Women Illawarra have partnered with Kate Kilby from Beach Shack Breathing to offer FREE Restorative Yoga Classes in our women’s center.
Restorative yoga is a gentle yoga practice using blankets, cushions and bolsters to allow the body to gently open and relax, being a trauma-informed yoga practice means it is a safe space for people who have had trauma in their life.
A Yoga mat and bolster will be provided during your session, Please bring a towel and wear comfortable clothing.
Bookings are essential please contact 42281499 or email wi@womenillawarra.org.au
Urban Biodiversity Workshop
Come along to the Women’s Patch on Friday June 27th for a very special workshop with environmental educator, Emma Rooksby. Learn about why biodiversity is important in life as we create habitats for local creatures, recognise local plants, and nurture random pop-up plants as gifts. Emma will share stories of biodiversity and connection with country.
FREE Friday 27 June, 2025, 10-12pm
170 Corrimal Street, Dharawal Country, Wollongong
Morning tea provided
REGISTRATION IS ESSENTIAL! wi@womenillawarra.org.au 4228 1499
WISE - End of Life Chat
Join us in “The Lab” at Wollongong Library to learn some new skills. The WISE Program assists women aged 55+ who may have experienced housing insecurity and/or isolation to connect and learn new skills.
In this session, participants will learn about end of life choices and steps to take to prepare for this very important life event.
Afternoon tea is provided
WISE is FREE and registration is ESSENTIAL
Contact wi@womenillawarra.org.au or call 42281499 to register. If you are not 55+ please not that in the registration process.
Annual Events
International Women’s Day
An inter-cultural community event which engages culturally diverse groups of older and younger women to empower and promote social connection and participation.
Reclaim the Night
A community event held every October raising awareness of violence against women and provides a platform for women to have a voice in their local community.
White Ribbon ride
A community event held every November which raises awareness of violence against women.