Bunmabunmarra Service
Real Change. Strong Communities.

Bunmabunmarra Services Staff
about
Kristie Burge

Kristie Burge

Director

ABOUT US

Bunmabunmarra Service is a community-focused organisation committed to creating safer, stronger, and healthier futures for Aboriginal people and the wider Central West community.

We support our communities through targeted initiatives, including direct responses to homelessness and domestic violence, behaviour change programs, education on healthy relationships, and opportunities for healing and reconnection. Our services are there for individuals and families who are experiencing disadvantage, providing timely, responsive support as well as long-term pathways to strength and wellbeing.

At the heart of our work is Aboriginal culture, knowledge, kinship, and care. We recognise the power of cultural connection in healing and change, while remaining inclusive of all people who need support. Bunmabunmarra Service walks alongside the community with respect, integrity, and compassion to break cycles of harm and build futures grounded in safety, empowerment, and hope.

Our Programs

Our programs offer individuals access to comprehensive, culturally safe specialist support. We meet people where they are and walk alongside them on their journey toward safety, healing and strength.

Bunmabunmarra supports truth, not shame - healing, not hiding.

We honour the strength of those who survived, and the courage of those choosing to change.

The cycle ends where healing begins.

Bedroom at Gibir House
Bedroom at Gibir House
help-people help-people help-people
Our People

A Dedicated Team

Our team specialises in designing and delivering holistic programs that are:

  • Culturally safe, grounded in Aboriginal knowledge and kinship systems.
  • Centred on lived experience, recognising the strength in sharing stories.
  • Focused on reconnection to community, family, and Country.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get urgent help from an immediate threat of violence?

Where is Bunmabunmarra based?

Bunmabunmarra Service is proudly based in Dubbo, with outreach support available across the wider Central West region of NSW. 

Gibir House - Supported Accommodation
Our office and short-term accommodation service, Gibir House, is located in Dubbo and provides supported housing for men experiencing homelessness. Please note: Gibir House is not a drop-in centre. Access to this service is through referral and assessment. Contact Us 02 5816 9032.

Walumarra Strong Families - Leaving Violence Program
This office provides case management and support to individuals and families across Dubbo and the Central West. Our Leaving Violence Program office is located at: 1/64 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 Contact Us 02 5816 9035.

What is the cost of your services?

Bunmabunmarra Service is committed to making support as accessible as possible. With the support of government funding and community partnerships, many of our programs are provided at no cost to participants.

Gibir House - Supported Accommodation 
Accommodation at Gibir House requires a tenant contribution, determined through Homes NSW assessments. This contribution helps cover living costs while ensuring ongoing access to supported housing.

Walumarra Strong Families and First Nations Collective Programs
Our Walumarra Strong Families (Leaving Violence Program) and First Nations Collective (Behaviour Change Programs) are fully funded by the Department of Social Services and are available at no cost to participants.

How can I apply for financial assistance to leave a partner/family member/household that uses violence?

The Leaving Violence Program (LVP), funded by the Department of Social Services, provides financial and practical support to help you safely leave a violent relationship with a current or former intimate partner. 

It is important to note that the LVP does not currently provide funding for family violence situations (for example, violence from parents, siblings, or other household members). Our team can, however, connect you with other local services that may be able to offer support if you are experiencing these circumstances.

Bunmabunmarra has a duty of care to every client, and all applications must meet the policy guidelines and funding eligibility criteria set out under the LVP. This ensures assistance is delivered safely, fairly, and in line with program requirements.

Through the LVP, eligible participants may receive:

  • Financial assistance (up to $5,000) for immediate needs such as rent, food, transport, safety measures, and essentials.
  • Individualised case management and safety planning.
  • Referrals to housing, legal, health, and community services.
  • Emotional and cultural support to strengthen healing and independence.

 To apply, you can:

  1. Visit our Services page for detailed information on the Leaving Violence Program.
  2. Complete the Referral Form.
  3. If you are unsafe or unable to complete forms online, please contact our team directly by phone or in person at our Dubbo office, and we will assist you through the process.
    1/64 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830.
     Contact Us 02 5816 9035.

Your safety and confidentiality are our highest priority. All applications are handled with care and respect, and our staff will walk alongside you every step of the way.

Can I remain anonymous?

Your safety is our highest priority. Bunmabunmarra Service follows strict confidentiality and privacy practices to ensure your information is always protected. The details you choose to share with us are used solely to provide you with the most appropriate support.

As part of our funding agreements, we do provide de-identified information to government funding bodies. This means your personal identity is never disclosed. We have clear processes and secure IT systems in place to maintain strict privacy barriers and protect your information at every stage.

Do you keep my information on file?

Yes. The information you provide allows us to deliver support that is tailored to your individual needs. We keep records securely and only for as long as they are required to meet our service obligations and provide you with the best possible care.

Bunmabunmarra Service is committed to safeguarding your privacy. All records are managed in line with strict confidentiality standards, and access is restricted to authorised staff only. Your information will never be shared without your consent, except where required by law or under funding agreements in a de-identified format.

Can I contact you on behalf of someone I’m worried about?

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000.

Bunmabunmarra Service is not a crisis service, but we can provide guidance and connect you with appropriate supports if you or a loved one is experiencing homelessness, domestic or family violence, or mental health challenges. 

We can walk alongside you to identify services and options for your loved one. However, please note that we are unable to discuss specific client details or apply for funding on someone’s behalf without the client being present and providing consent.

Where can I find out more information about community groups and events in my local area?

Our holistic programs and support are designed to connect individuals with their local communities across the Central West region. To view a list of upcoming events in your area, please see About Us 


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