‘Be there’ – a world first Domestic Violence app, supporting the bystander
Do you want to know what to say or how to ‘be there’ for a loved one, a friend or even a stranger who is
The MATE Bystander Program empowers everyone to prevent various forms of discrimination and violence, including sexism, racism, harassment, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, and bullying. Originating in the gender-based violence arena, MATE has grown into a globally recognised, award-winning initiative, grounded in evidence and trauma-informed practices from Griffith University’s Disrupting Violence Beacon. Led by passionate advocates Psychologist Shaan Ross-Smith and Mediator Kirsty Tschirpig, the program aims to make a difference one bystander at a time.
Tailored to meet the specific needs of workplaces, schools, universities, and communities, MATE collaborates closely with clients to deliver expert-driven solutions.
Additionally, the program offers a Train the Trainer option, empowering organisations to lead their own change.
MATE training stands out for being interactive, empowering, energetic, and pragmatic, making a lasting impact on participants and changing the world!
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The MATE Bystander Program, with its successful history across mining, legal, education, government, community groups, and individual collaborations, exemplifies the power of positive change.
Independently evaluated by ACER and renowned for securing grants for work in rural and remote communities, MATE demonstrates unparalleled commitment and efficacy in its mission.
By adopting a proactive bystander approach, MATE leads the primary prevention initiatives against violence, sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and discrimination, while fostering positive and safe workplaces. Our program plays a pivotal role in building communities where freedom from violence is not just an ideal, but a reality.
At the heart of MATE is the goal to illuminate the prevalence of abusive behaviour and the subtler dynamics that sustain hostile environments. Through raising awareness and educating on these issues, MATE empowers individuals to recognise their power to initiate change. This recognition inspires action, underscoring that the journey to a more respectful and safe society begins with each one of us.
Do you want to know what to say or how to ‘be there’ for a loved one, a friend or even a stranger who is
MATE regularly receives requests to deliver our training in at-risk communities, those who have identified a need but do not have the financial capacity to
Recently, we ran a webinar giving a brief overview of the MATE Bystander Program and what we can offer. We hope this answers your questions
We need your help. This beautiful family need your help. Kelly Wilkinson should be alive to continue to do the job she loved so much
Content Warning: The content of this blog and the included links may be confronting, and they may cause distress. Please use your discretion and practice
Whether you are experiencing violence, concerned about your own behaviour, or if you are an effective bystander looking for numbers to refer a friend or
1800RESPECT is open 24 hours to support people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence and abuse.
Helping create safe, just, well-governed and equitable societies
The MATE team acknowledge and pay respects to the Kumbumerri Salt Water people, the traditional owners of the land on which our office sits. We acknowledge the Kumbumerri elders, past, present and emerging. We pay respects to all traditional owners across Australia where we meet, learn and work with others. MATE is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.