Project Sitara helps migrant women escape domestic violence

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 21:32 · Archive

Project Sitara uses trusted community members to help women from migrant and refugee backgrounds access family violence services.

Project Sitara is a community-based initiative operating in Melbourne's western suburbs, designed to prevent and respond to family violence in migrant and refugee communities. The project trains dozens of trusted community members, called 'Sitaras' (meaning 'star' in Hindi and Urdu), who are equipped with knowledge, tools and connections to recognise family violence at an early stage and respond appropriately.

Community member Chitra, an Indian migrant, received a panicked call in the middle of the night from her son's friend. The boy reported that his father was threatening his mother and everyone in the home, with his mother 'shouting and screaming'. Chitra advised the boy to contact police and then spoke to his mother directly. The woman revealed her husband had threatened more severe violence if she went to police, saying, 'I'm very scared.'

Chitra consulted family violence specialist Shikha Makker for advice on how to help. Following guidance, Chitra drove to the woman's house, collected her and her dog, and encouraged her to tell police everything. Chitra then accompanied her as police connected the woman with family violence services Safe Steps and Orange Door. Chitra later said of the outcome: 'Just a small step of mine changed her life completely and now she's separated. The man has moved away and she is doing good.' Chitra continues to provide emotional support to the woman.

How it is being reported

• Project builds bridges to safety for migrant familiesAn initiative to prevent family violence leans on trusted community leaders to help women from migrant and refugee backgrounds connect with services.The West Australian · 17 Oct, 21:02
• Project builds bridges to safety for migrant familiesAn initiative to prevent family violence leans on trusted community leaders to help women from migrant and refugee backgrounds connect with services.Perth Now · 17 Oct, 21:02

In this story: Chitra · Shikha Makker · Project Sitara · Melbourne · Safe Steps · Orange Door

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