Beyond Survival

Beyond Survival is a cultural healing program that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men who are incarcerated. The program uses story as a way for men to find their own healing path. 

Who is it for? 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men who are incarcerated in Victoria. 

How it works 

• Our voluntary program runs for 3 days with a 2.5 hour session each morning and afternoon. 
• Storytelling is used to create an understanding of each participant to build a path towards healing. 
• The types of stories we explore in our sessions include: 
  • the stories we tell ourselves 
  • the stories others may share about us 
  • the stories that shape our identity and connections 
  • Stolen Generations stories and how these effect our own lives 
  • our preferred story and how this could look like from a strengths-based point of view. 
• Our sessions are grounded in culture. We create a safe environment for all men to share their stories and build a sense of trust. 
• Some of the ways we ground our sessions in culture include: 
  • yarning circles 
  • the use of a talking-stick for group discussions 
  • decorating our program room with gum-leaves, artwork and posters of prominent community leaders. 
• We invite guest speakers from different backgrounds to meet with the group to share information and stories of healing. This includes: 
  • other men sharing their own healing journeys 
  • community organisations talking about their services 
  • other men's specific services and support groups 
  • parole support 
  • family history research 
  • cultural camps 
  • education and employment opportunities. 
• We provide follow-up sessions  3 weeks after the program finishes with additional supports to help men after their release from custody 

More information 

• Referral to the program is through the Aboriginal Wellbeing Officer at each location.
• Participation is voluntary.