About RizeUp

RizeUp Australia is a community-driven organisation of passionate men and women, dedicated to supporting the many families affected by domestic and family violence.

Whilst we raise awareness through speaking engagements, the victims of Family and Domestic Violence need more than talk. They need practical help – and they need it fast! That’s where RizeUp makes a very real difference. We have created various programs to support and empower the brave families via the specialist domestic and family violence organisations (for security reasons, we do not directly meet the families we support) – from helping to create a new home for victims fleeing a violent household and supporting children in their healing process, to raising much-needed funds for families left with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Founded by CEO Nicolle Edwards and joined by an outstanding team of men and women from all walks of life, along with Patrons Sam Collins, Bianca Stone, Shelley Craft, Mia Freedman, Petero Civoniceva, Simone O’Brien and Cameron and Allison Daddo.

Our Programs

Health & Wellbeing Program

The health and wellbeing program for RizeUp encompasses providing access to a range of support services, including specialist counselling, physical health resources, and emotional support designed to help individuals rebuild their lives. Our aim is to break down the many financial barriers that prevent victim-survivors from accessing holistic care that addresses both immediate needs and long-term well-being.

AT HOME

The cornerstone of RizeUp's endeavours, the 'Homes Program,' is revolutionary. Living free from violence begins with having a safe, comfortable home. We create sanctuaries of comfort, support, and security by furnishing homes for families emerging from traumatic circumstances. RizeUp meticulously tailors each residence to meet individual needs, affirming that victim-survivors are not just escaping violence but are embarking on a journey of recovery, strength, hope, and new beginnings.

RAPID RESPONSE

Designed to meet the diverse needs of families fleeing domestic violence (this could include food, blankets, urgent funds, etc.) quickly and efficiently.

YESS

The RizeUp Youth Program provides young people access to essential school resources and extracurricular activities, supporting their educational needs and personal growth. The program focuses on reducing social isolation and helping young people feel more included among their peers. It prevents them from feeling left out or different and fosters a sense of belonging, stability, and community.

Meet our Founder and CEO

Nicolle Edwards

Nicolle Edwards is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of RizeUp Australia, a not-for-profit that provides practical support to families fleeing domestic and family violence. In partnership with specialist domestic and family violence services, RizeUp provides ground breaking levels of practical support to families impacted by domestic and family violence.

As families traverse the journey from danger through to safety, RizeUp walks alongside them to create safe, bright, new beginnings. From the creation of fully furnished homes, providing vital resources for the children beginning again at a new school, to covering the cost of specialist counselling and medical support, RizeUp is an instrumental piece of the trauma recovery puzzle. With a sales and marketing background, Nicolle is generous, direct, warm, engaging and supportive. Nicolle’s passion for charity work began in 2012 after assisting a woman set up house after leaving a violent relationship. Nicolle’s successful journey has been widely recognized by the community and as a result she is an accomplished TEDx speaker, podcast guest, Westfield Hero twice over and Commonwealth Games 2018 Queen’s Baton Relay bearer to name a few.

As the 2017 recipient of Excellence in Volunteer Management Award (Queensland Volunteering Awards), Nicolle currently manages over 750 volunteers and is resolute in continuing RizeUp’s expansion across Australia and New Zealand.

To all victim survivors of domestic and family violence, I recognise the impact of trauma, violence, and abuse on your physical, mental, and social health. I pay my respect to you, and I value and wisdom of your lived experience.