A new program aimed at empowering victim-survivors of domestic violence through sport has launched in the Northern Territory (NT), with Darwin welcoming its first women's-only trauma-focused boxing program, 'Knockout Violence.'
Founded by Charles Darwin University (CDU) Social Work Lecturer (School of Allied Health Science - Faculty of Health) Ellen Thomas, 'Knockout Violence' combines evidence-based practices with the power of boxing, creating a safe and supportive space for women and girls to reclaim their strength, autonomy, and sense of self.
Since launching in December 2024, the program has worked with 133 participants both female and male - including 30 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women - across 23 events.
To ensure accessibility, more than half these events were free, with all profits used to support future sessions and participant needs.
"Domestic violence is a critical issue that disproportionately affects women and girls, particularly in high-risk areas like the NT," Ms Thomas said.
"For many, trauma lives in the body, and traditional therapy isn't always accessible or effective, so trauma-focused exercise like boxing - that regulates the nervous system - becomes a powerful pathway to healing."
Taking up boxing a few years ago for "a bit of fitness and fun," 'Knockout Violence' volunteer Kylie Burn said the program challenged the way society conditioned women and young girls to make themselves small in the face of confrontation.
"Dealing with the confrontation of having people in your space in a physical contact sport can be uncomfortable, especially for victim-survivors," Ms Burn said.
"Being able to look at that and engage with those feelings in a safe space with other women - as well as in an environment where you can trust those around you; that process is quite a healing thing to be able to face those traumas and feelings that might come up."
An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander woman from Darwin, Ms Burn said she was looking forward to using her knowledge and cross-cultural practices to help other women, with her participation in the program spurring ambitions to enter the ring competitively.
"Since learning more about boxing I'd love to build up my confidence to spar and maybe even compete. It feels a little bit far away, but I'd like to get there one day," she said.
With plans to expand the program to young First Nations students at schools across the NT in July, Ms Thomas said the sky was the limit for 'Knockout Violence' and its participants.
"We will also be delivering leadership and boxing programs to youth engaged in workplace readiness VET certifications through CatholicCare NT," she said.
"'Knockout Violence' offers more than fitness - it provides women and girls with a safe, empowering space to regulate emotions, build confidence, and rebuild trust in themselves and others."
