About us

Woman with long hair, gazing directly into camera, with a ray of light beaming on her face

We’re the alliance for women’s freedom, equity and respect

Formerly known as the Coalition of Women’s Domestic Violence Services SA, Embolden is South Australia’s peak body of domestic, family and sexual violence services. We lobby and advocate for women’s rights to respect, safety and self-determination.

Who we are

Embolden is an alliance working to end violence against women and their children in South Australia. We are the peak body of domestic, family and sexual violence services across the state.

Two women standing under gold foil balloon sign reading 'Be bold' with ray of light beaming on them

What we do

  • Lobby and advocate for women’s rights to respect, safety and self determination
  • Represent providers of specialist services in the domestic, family and sexual violence and related sectors, including services that work with men who use violence against women and Aboriginal specialist services
  • Consult and collaborate with Government and non-Government on issues relating to gendered violence and women’s safety
  • Provide policy advice and submissions
  • Coordinate events and community action promoting women’s rights to freedom, equity and respect

Our vision

A society based on equity and respect for all women, in a world free from violence.

Our values

Embolden's values venn diagram: intersecting Freedom, Equity and Respect, underpinned by Safety

Safety

Women and children have a fundamental right to safety

Freedom

Women and children have a fundamental right to freedom from violence

Women’s rights to self-determination are upheld

Equity

Services for women and children are accessible

Service provision is equitable and non-discriminatory

Systemic barriers are recognised and dismantled

Respect

Services are responsive to diverse needs and cultural experiences

Services work collaboratively and actively to support integration

Perpetrators are held accountable

Services are transparent and accountable

A proud history

For over 40 years we have been fighting for the safety of women and their children. Embolden is the new identity for what was previously known as the Coalition of Women’s Domestic Violence Services SA.

From the beginning of the women’s shelter movement in South Australia, our members have assisted thousands of women and children to achieve freedom from violence.

We do this through promoting women and their children’s safety and wellbeing and supporting our member organisations, including those that provide frontline services. We collectively lobby for legislative reform, community action and systemic change.