Kalgoorlie Men Lead the Way: The Karlaya Project Launches at AFLS

On Monday 23 June, Aboriginal Family Legal Services (AFLS) Kalgoorlie was proud to host the official launch of The Karlaya Project — a groundbreaking community-led initiative focused on primary prevention of violence against women.

Developed in partnership with DVassist and Hope Community Services, The Karlaya Project was shaped by the lived experience, leadership, and cultural knowledge of five Aboriginal men from Kalgoorlie:
Stephen Morrison, Frank Martin, George Laughton, Brett Lambadge, and Joshua Alberts.

Over the past year, this group has worked alongside DVassist’s Heath Greville to develop a series of culturally safe, community-specific resources aimed at addressing the root causes of violence — challenging harmful gender norms, promoting healthy masculinity, and inspiring boys and men to lead with respect.

Monday’s event brought together local service providers, Elders, families, and community leaders to reflect, learn, and celebrate. It was a strong reminder that real change starts within community — and is sustained by leadership, connection, and truth.

AFLS was honoured to support this launch and be part of the movement toward long-term, community-driven prevention. We thank all who attended and those continuing this important work.

Image 1: AFLS Regional Coordinator Zalie Bonney with Chairperson Victoria Hovane and Ella Ailenei from DVassist, Frank Martin (Kalgoorlie Police) , Corina Martin (AFLS CEO), and Heath Greville (DVassist) celebrating the launch.

Image 2: Brett Lambadge (WACHS), George Laughton, Stephen Morrison (Hope), and Frank Martin (Kalgoorlie Police) 

What is Primary Prevention?
Primary prevention means stopping violence before it starts — by tackling the underlying drivers, such as gender inequality, rigid gender roles, and disrespectful behaviours. The Karlaya Project joins DVassist’s broader efforts, including the Let’s Talk Gender Roles campaign, in working toward a safer, more respectful future.

📧 For more info or to get involved: community@dvassist.org.au

DVassist is proud to be working alongside local organisations in Kalgoorlie on a new and innovative primary prevention of violence against women project.

Since November 2024, five Aboriginal men have been meeting voluntarily with DVassist’s Heath Greville to co-develop resources aimed at preventing violence against women. Their focus has been on healthy masculinity and how social norms can influence men's behaviour. Through powerful and honest conversations, these men have shared their experiences. With their permission, these insights are shaping a series of workshops and resources for their community.

The group has named their work The Karlaya [Emu] Project, inspired by the male emu’s role in nurturing and caring for young. It’s a strong symbol of shared responsibility, raising children, and building strong families.

Primary prevention means acting early, before violence happens. It's about teaching boys and young men about respect, equality, and healthy relationships.

A heartfelt congradulations to the Advisory Group members — Stephen Morrison, Frank Martin, George Laughton, Brett Lambadgee, and Joshua Alberts — for their leadership, generosity, and commitment to change. in partnership with Hope Community Services, WA Police, Central Regional TAFE, WA Country Health Service, and Bega Garnbirringu Health Service.