Bars Behind Me

Bars Behind Me is an Aboriginal women-led movement founded by proud Gumbaynggirr / Yuin woman Barbara Brennan, transforming support for Aboriginal women impacted by the justice system. Grounded in cultural knowledge, lived experience and community leadership, the organisation delivers an innovative Relational Continuum of Care that supports women from incarceration through to reintegration and leadership.

Beginning in custody through its Pen Pal Program, Bars Behind Me provides connection, cultural grounding and practical pathways before release. This support continues in the community through daily check-ins, mentoring and culturally safe networks that build accountability, wellbeing and belonging.

Central to the model is cultural healing, with activities such as saltwater gatherings reconnecting women to Country, identity and community. The organisation also fosters leadership by supporting women into education , employment and peer mentoring roles.

With plans to establish a culturally grounded Healing Centre, Bars Behind Me continues to expand its impact. Its work demonstrates how Aboriginal women-led solutions can drive healing, strengthen identity and create lasting change for individuals, families and communities.