The Rainbow Lodge Program A fresh start

The Rainbow Lodge Walama List Program supports First Nations men who are eligible for their matter to be dealt with under the new Walama List in the NSW District Court. This innovative approach to dealing with First Nations offenders uses a community led, holistic approach with an emphasis on cultural support and direction to find alternatives to incarceration and support long-term healing for the participants.

The Walama List includes court-based conversations that include a Judge, Elders and/or community members, DPP, defence lawyer, Community Corrections and any supporting NGOs, all working together to support the client to meet their individual case plan goals.

We have partnered with First Nations owned and operated organisations including Wiimpatja Consulting. Ivan Clarke will deliver their innovative 'Healing the Warrior' program, an intensive 4-day men's change program built on cultural principles. Gamarada Universal Indigenous Resources also support Rainbow Lodge with cultural training and deliver their successful 'Healing Circle' program each week to the men.

Walama List Participants at Rainbow Lodge participate in weekly cultural outings to places of cultural significance with our Peer Worker. Our Peer Worker educates the men through storytelling and hands on activities including making clapping sticks, art and dance. Our Elder also engages the men in 1-on-1 yarning each week so they have a safe cultural space to express their needs and challenges.