First Nations-led organisation Strong Women Talking has launched a new mobile education van to expand its outreach across Queensland, bringing its programs directly to Indigenous communities.
The Strong Women Talking mobile van will be used to deliver education and awareness sessions focused on domestic and financial abuse, and economic empowerment, in a way which is trauma informed and culturally grounded.
Featuring artworks along with Strong Women Talking's branding on the exterior, the bespoke van is equipped with resources and facilities to support conversations about financial abuse.
Founder and CEO, Sono Weatherall, established Strong Women Talking to support First Nations women impacted by domestic and family violence.
Its model brings together Elders, aunties and peer support to create culturally safe spaces where women can connect, learn and rebuild connection to culture, community and identity.
"The mobile van will help extend our reach and meet women where they are," the Butchulla and Garrawa woman said.
"It's about taking support and education into community in a way that feels safe and culturally grounded.
"For many women, it starts with being able to have a yarn. This will help us reach more women and communities and continue building that connection."
This project was supported through CommBank's Next Chapter Innovation, which provides selected organisations with grants of up to $200,000 alongside non-financial support including executive mentoring and strategic guidance.
Launching during Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, the initiative aims to make support and education more accessible, particularly in communities where services can be harder to reach.
CommBank Group Customer Advocate, Angela MacMillan, said the innovative project reflects the importance of locally led, culturally centred support.
"Strong Women Talking is a strong example of a community-led approach shaped by the needs of First Nations women and families," Ms MacMillian said.
"Through CommBank Next Chapter Innovation, we're proud to support the work of Strong Women Talking to help extend their reach into more communities.
"Access to safe, local support can play an important role in financial abuse recovery."
The commitment forms part of CommBank's FY26-28 Elevate Reconciliation Action Plan.
