Supporting women and children to rebuild their lives

We are a specialist family violence service providing safe refuge accommodation, case management, outreach, therapeutic support and early intervention programs for children.

Supporting women and children for 50 years

For 50 years, Emerge Women and Children’s Support Network has supported families impacted by violence to find safety, stability and recovery. Our work is grounded in trauma-informed, evidence-based practice and a strong commitment to helping families rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

At Emerge, we recognise that children are victim-survivors in their own right. This belief shapes our service model and ensures children receive the dedicated support they need to recover, reconnect and thrive.

Every day, our multidisciplinary team walks alongside women and children as they move from crisis toward safety, autonomy and healing.

What makes Emerge different

Emerge combines crisis response with long-term recovery, recognising that leaving violence and rebuilding life afterwards is rarely straightforward.

Our integrated service model includes:

safe refuge accommodation for women and children escaping violence
specialist case management and advocacy
therapeutic services supporting recovery from trauma
early intervention programs for children impacted by family violence
collaboration with legal, research and community partners

Through this approach, we support families to stabilise, reconnect with their communities and rebuild their lives beyond violence.

We also work closely with research institutions and sector partners to strengthen evidence-based practice and contribute to system reform that improves outcomes for victim-survivors.

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A legacy of courage, compassion and change

Established in 1975, Emerge began as Caroline Lodge, one of Victoria’s earliest women’s refuges and the second refuge to open in the state.

Caroline Lodge was founded by a group of committed community volunteers who recognised the urgent need for safe refuge for women and children escaping family violence. At a time when very few services existed, these pioneers created a place where women and children could find safety, support and understanding.

Among those early advocates was Constance Smith, who later became the refuge’s first paid coordinator when funding was secured. In 2009, the service was rebranded as Emerge Women and Children’s Support Network, reflecting the expansion of our programs and services.

Today, Emerge continues the legacy of Caroline Lodge — providing safe housing, therapeutic recovery and innovative early intervention programs that help break the cycles of family violence.

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Emerge began in 1975 when a group of courageous community volunteers opened one of Victoria’s first refuges for women and children escaping violence. Their belief that every family deserves safety continues to guide our work today.

Five Decades of Supporting Women and Children

From a small volunteer-run refuge to a specialist service supporting families across our community, Emerge has continued to grow, adapt and lead change.

1975

Caroline Lodge established

One of Victoria’s earliest refuges for women and children escaping family violence is founded by community volunteers.

Late 1970s

Constance Smith becomes the refuge’s first paid coordinator after funding is secured.

2009

Rebrand to Emerge Women and Children’s Support Network

The organisation evolves to expand programs supporting women and children beyond crisis accommodation.

2025

Back on Track program launched

‍An innovative early intervention program supporting primary school-aged children impacted by family violence.

2026

Emerge introduces a refreshed brand identity and new website to strengthen accessibility, engagement and the way we communicate our impact.

Today

Emerge continues to drive innovative, evidence-based practice that disrupts cycles of family violence and supports long-term recovery for women and children.

Looking forward

Family violence remains one of the most complex social issues facing our communities.

Emerge continues to evolve in response to these challenges through innovation, research partnerships and evidence-informed practice. We are committed to strengthening early intervention, supporting long-term recovery and contributing to system change that improves safety and outcomes for women and children.

Together with our staff, community partners and supporters, we are working toward a future where cycles of violence are disrupted and families can rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.

Strategic Plan

Learn More About Emerge

Discover more about our organisation, our impact and the people behind our work.

Our Vision and Mission

Learn about the purpose that guides Emerge’s work and the values that shape how we support women and children experiencing family violence.

Our Impact

Explore the outcomes of our work and how our programs support women and children to rebuild their lives after family violence.

Leadership and Governance

Meet the Board and leadership team guiding Emerge’s strategy, governance and future direction.

Work With Us

Join a team committed to supporting women and children and disrupting cycles of family violence.