For Her With Her

Building a Life Beyond Violence: Courage, Change and Healing with Yazdaneh Galt

In this deeply moving episode of For Her, With Her, we speak with Dr. Yazdaneh Amiryazdani Galt, who shares her courageous journey of escaping domestic violence, navigating complex legal and immigration systems, and rebuilding her life in Australia. Originally from Iran, Yazdaneh speaks candidly about the barriers she faced, from cultural isolation to legal hurdles, and how knowledge, planning, and the support of community and legal services helped her reclaim her future. Today, she is an accomplished audiologist, business owner, and proud mother, whose story inspired the Oscar-nominated film Shayda, directed by her daughter Noora Niasari. Yazdaneh reminds us that help is not charity, it’s a right, and shares her hard-won insights for women thinking about leaving violence. She also shares her hopes for a future where no woman has to risk everything to live free from fear.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Women’s Legal Service Queensland, or if you’re in immediate danger, always call Triple Zero (000).
DISCLAIMER TO BE ADDED TO ALL SHOW NOTES:
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances.  The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).Produced by The Podcast Boss

Shifting the System: Holding People Using Violence to Account with Lucy Gregory

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we tackle a crucial but often overlooked part of preventing violence: how we hold people who use violence to account. Lucy Gregory, CEO of Domestic Violence Prevention Centre (DVPC), joins us to unpack how accountability goes beyond the justice system. Lucy reflects on why language matters when talking about people who use violence and how we can support men to step into healthier, safer versions of masculinity.  We also discuss how programs, like those provided by SPEAQ and Men’s Line Australia, support men to take responsibility and discuss the barriers that still exist, including a lack of investment in prevention programs, as well as culturally safe, community-led responses for First Nations and diverse communities. Lucy shares her hopes for a future where equality is the norm, and where services like hers are no longer needed.
If you or someone you know needs support, you can call Men’s Line Australia or connect with local behaviour change programs via SPEAQ. For those affected by violence, reach out to Women’s Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.DISCLAIMER:
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances.  The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).Produced by The Podcast Boss

Parenting After Separation: Legal Pathways and Practical Tips with Clare Dart

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we sit down with Barrister Clare Dart to explore the complexities of parenting after separation. Practising in family law, child protection, and domestic violence since 1997, Clare unpacks the key legal pathways for parenting arrangements, including recent amendments to the Family Law Act. We also debunk common myths, like the belief in a ‘magic age’ where children can decide, or that equal time is always the default. Clare explains the role of mediation, including how it has evolved into a safer and more accessible process for victim-survivors, and why it often results in better outcomes than court battles. We break down what to expect if court becomes necessary, the importance of gathering evidence and thinking about long-term parenting needs. We also discuss the importance of early legal advice and the support that’s available through services like Women’s Legal Service Queensland.
If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You are not alone.DISCLAIMER:
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances.  The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
 
Produced by The Podcast Boss

Protecting the Whole Family: Why Animal Safety Matters in Domestic and Family Violence with Monique Dam

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we chat with Monique Dam, CEO of Lucy’s Project, to explore the link between domestic and family violence and animal abuse. Monique explains how perpetrators use threats or harm to animals as a tool of control, preventing victim-survivors seeking safety. We explore the barriers that make it harder for women to escape violence with their animals and the growing movement to make shelters, refuges, and housing more animal-inclusive. We discuss how animals are finally being recognised in legal frameworks (such as the recently amended Family Law Act) and why services like Pets in Crisis are critical lifelines for families in Queensland. We also discuss how the community, including veterinarians and frontline services,can help by recognising animal abuse as a red flag for domestic violence.
If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You are not alone. If you’d like to support or learn more about Lucy’s Project’s work advocating for people and animals affected by violence, visit Lucy’s Project.DISCLAIMER
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances.  The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).Produced by The Podcast Boss

Supporting Women’s Safety on Their Terms with Michelle Royes from DVConnect

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we talk to Michelle Royes, Interim CEO of DVConnect, to explore the realities of separation and safety for women experiencing domestic and family violence. Michelle explains why separation is often the most dangerous time and why leaving isn’t always the safest option for everyone. We unpack why statements like 'why doesn’t she just leave?' can do more harm than good, and why we need to reframe conversations around supporting victim-survivors to make their safest next choice, in their own time. Michelle shares how services like DVConnect offer state-wide, trauma-informed support for women, children, men and pets (Pets in Crisis program), and why friends and family play a critical role in listening without judgement. We also discuss why stopping the cycle of abuse is the responsibility of the whole community, and why services like Men’s Line Australia are essential to creating safer futures for all.
If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland, DVConnect, or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You are not alone.DISCLAIMER
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances.  The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
 
Produced By The Podcast Boss

How Financial Abuse Impacts Women and What Can Be Done with Buffy Kerekes and Ersi Scarman

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we’re joined by Buffy Kerekes and Ersi Scarman from The Zahra Foundation to shine a light on financial abuse. One of the most common yet least understood forms of domestic and family violence, Buffy and Ersi share common experiences they hear from the women they work with, exposing how financial abuse can trap survivors and continue long after a relationship ends. We discuss the systemic barriers victim-survivors face, the emotional toll of financial abuse, and how services like The Zahra Foundation’s free, trauma-informed financial counselling programs and Financial Empowerment Checklist can help women regain control and confidence. 
If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You are not alone.
DISCLAIMER:
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.
The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances. 
The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
 
Produced By The Podcast Boss

Supporting Women on Temporary Visas Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence with Vanessa Burn

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we are joined by Vanessa Burn, Head of the Migration Law Practice at Women's Legal Centre ACT, to explore how domestic and family violence intersects with Australia's migration system. Vanessa shares how women on temporary visas are particularly vulnerable to coercive control and manipulation, often fearing deportation or losing their children if they seek help. We unpack myths around migration, visas, and legal rights, including the misconception that you must be a citizen to access services like Women's Legal Service Queensland or Australia’s network of Community Legal Centres. Vanessa also explains the critical importance of early legal advice, the expansion of family violence provisions across more visa types, and the urgent need for system reform, including a dedicated family violence visa pathway.
If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You can also visit the Department of Home Affairs Family Violence and Migration for more information on your rights. You are not alone.DISCLAIMER 
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances.  The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
Produced By The Podcast Boss

Listening, Not Judging: Supporting First Nations Women Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence with Penney Ferguson

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we are joined by Penney Ferguson, CEO of the First Nations Women's Legal Service Queensland (FNWLSQ), to discuss the unique challenges First Nations women face when experiencing domestic and family violence. Penney shares her own story and the experiences of her community, highlighting how systemic discrimination, racism, and geographical isolation can create additional barriers to safety and justice. We also discuss why First Nations women’s voices and leadership must become a central focus and why listening without judgment is one of the most powerful things we can do to create safer futures for all women.If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You are not alone.DISCLAIMER:
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.
The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances. 
The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).

Understanding Tech Abuse in Domestic Family and Sexual Violence with Dr Freya McLachlan

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we speak with Dr Freya McLachlan, research fellow at Griffith University’s ARC Centre for Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Drawing on her research on Intimate Partner Femicide, Dr McLachlan unpacks the issue of tech-facilitated abuse, explaining how technology like smartphones, social media, smart home devices and financial platforms, can be weaponised by perpetrators to stalk, harass, monitor and entrap. We discuss the unique challenges victim-survivors face in staying connected while staying safe, and why the onus needs to shift from survivors to tech developers and the broader community to create safer digital environments. Learn about crucial resources like the eSafety Commissioner, WESNET’s Safe Connections Program, and StopNCII.org for protecting against image-based abuse.If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You are not alone.DISCLAIMER 
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.
The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances. 
The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
produced by The Podcast Boss

Building Safer Futures Through Policing Domestic Violence with Inspector Mel Dwyer

In this episode of For Her, With Her, we chat with Inspector Mel Dwyer from the Queensland Police Service to talk about how police and the legal system are responding to domestic and family violence. Inspector Dwyer shares her journey from young police officer to specialist in DFV prevention, and new initiatives like specialist DV units, safe spaces in police stations, and the upcoming changes to coercive control laws, making it a criminal offence as of 26 May 2025. We also talk about the importance of trauma-informed policing, the role of bystanders, and tools like the Be There App that can help victim-survivors and their supporters safely document abuse.
If you or someone you know needs support, visit Women's Legal Service Queensland or call Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger. You are not alone.
 
DISCLAIMER:
This podcast contains information prepared by WLSQ and our guests. Information that was accurate at the time of the podcast and may become inaccurate at a later time without notice.
The information provided in this podcast is not exhaustive, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should obtain legal advice for their specific circumstances. 
The discussion/stories of domestic and family violence may be triggering for some members of the audience. Please be mindful. If you wish to seek further support, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).Produced by The Podcast Boss