A Remarkable Story: How Stronger Families Reclaims Hope and Safety

Stronger Families was born from a painful truth. Founders Geoff and Jackie Hart-Davies discovered that family and domestic violence wasn’t just a distant issue. It was happening within their own family and circle of friends. Though this realization was heartbreaking, it ignited a powerful vision for Stronger Families:

“To break the cycle of violence through education, support, and rehabilitation”

The Hidden Crisis: Family and Domestic Violence in Australia

Family and domestic violence (FDV) remains a widespread and deeply troubling issue—impacting not only individuals, but entire families. 

The numbers tell a painful story:

• 📌 2.9 million children in Australia have witnessed violence against a parent before turning 15

• 📌 35% of women globally experience intimate partner violence

• 📌 In Australia, 7% of women hospitalised for FDV-related assaults were pregnant

These are more than just statistics—they represent real families living in fear, and children growing up without the safety and security every home should provide.

A Mission Rooted in Personal Experience

Stronger Families began with Geoff Hart-Davies’ drive to create change, combining lived experience with academic study. What started in the Binjareb and Whadjuk regions is now a nationally respected organisation supported by:

• 👥 11 expert facilitators (counsellors, psychologists, social workers)

• 📚 Tailored workshops for families at risk

  
  

The impact is strengthened through partnerships with:

• 🚓 WA Police

• 🏥 Anglicare WA

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Kids First Australia

• 💬 Allambee Counselling

Together, they offer a holistic, root-cause-focused support network that helps break the cycle of violence.

Programs That Change Lives

Stronger Families delivers trauma-informed programs, including:

•       👨‍👧 Caring Dads: A 17-week program guiding fathers to recognise the impact of their behaviour and commit to lasting change

•       🤝 Steps Toward Caring: An evidence-based intervention that supports healthier parenting and strengthens father-child bonds

•       🏡 Strengthening Families: An innovative extension of Caring Dads, designed to prevent child maltreatment and support safer homes

2024 Impact at a Glance

• 460+ families were supported

• 97% of participants reported improved relationships

• 80+ high-risk fathers accessed behavioural change interventions

• 20,000+ community members were reached through education and outreach

These programs are changing lives—one family at a time. For many, the shift from fear to safety begins with a father’s decision to take responsibility. Caring Dads doesn’t just provide tools—it fosters genuine transformation.

Sarah’s Story: A Home Reclaimed

“When my partner joined Caring Dads, I wasn’t sure it would make a difference. But over time,

I saw changes I never thought were possible. He’s calmer, more patient, and actually listens

to me and the kids. For the first time in years, our home feels like a safe place.” - Sarah

Sarah’s experience reflects what Stronger Families is all about: not only interrupting cycles of violence, but creating space for healing, accountability, and hope.

The Road Ahead

Despite these successes, challenges remain. Demand for services continues to rise. Families face more complex needs, and funding constraints threaten program sustainability. But with these challenges come opportunities—to expand services, strengthen partnerships, and innovate for a safer future.

How You Can Be Part of the Change

• ✅ Make a fully tax-deductible donation

• ✅ Volunteer your time or expertise

• ✅ Refer someone to our programs

👉 Learn at www.strongerfamilies.com.au/take-action

Student No. 10604813

(Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan University).