Youth empowerment
At The MaraWay, we believe every young person should have the chance to thrive. Yet too many face barriers like limited access to education, exposure to unsafe environments, unresolved trauma, and a lack of culturally safe spaces for healing and growth. Without the right support, these challenges can lead to disadvantage, youth crime, and anti-social behaviour – and there are still too few long-term solutions to break the cycle.
Every young person deserves a fair go
The challenge facing our youth
Despite strong community will, there are too few dedicated spaces to support young people at risk – leaving a critical gap in prevention, early intervention, and rehabilitation.
The MaraWay, a proud First Nations-led social enterprise, is transforming farmland into a therapeutic space for young people. At Bilwon Farm, youth can:
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Reconnect with culture and identity
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Gain routine, structure, and purpose
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Learn skills through everyday farm life (animal care, land maintenance, aquaculture, fencing, and more)
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Work alongside Indigenous mentors and role models
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Access accredited training and pathways to employment
These farm environments provide a unique setting for healing, growth, and recovery.
Farm Co-Design Project
It all started with listening. The Farm Co-Design Project, funded by the John Villiers Trust, was our first step in shaping Bilwon Farm into a place for youth.
Young people, families, Elders, and community members shared their ideas, hopes, and experiences, helping co-design a vision for the farm that truly meets the needs of the local community.
Through this process, youth helped guide decisions about:
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Safe and welcoming spaces
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Skill-building activities and learning opportunities
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Ways to strengthen family, culture, and community ties
The Co-Design Project created a shared vision for Bilwon Farm – a place of belonging, growth, and opportunity – and laid the foundation for the youth-focused programs taking shape today.
Youth Empowerment Program
Building on the Co-Design Project, the Youth Empowerment Program supports young people aged 10 to 17, creating opportunities for learning, growth, and connection.
At Bilwon Farm, participants can:
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Discover hands-on learning and training opportunities
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Build confidence, resilience, and life skills
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Strengthen connections with family, culture, and community
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Explore pathways to future education and employment
This initiative is proudly funded by the Australian Federal Department of Industry, Science and Resources, helping The MaraWay nurture safe, empowering environments for youth to thrive.
Regional Reset
Bilwon Rise Up
Launching in January 2026, The Bilwon Rise Up is a unique live-in stay for young people aged 8 to 17 who need more intensive support to get on track.
Funded by Youth Justice, this program offers a structured, supportive environment where youth can:
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Receive personalised guidance and mentoring
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Engage in hands-on learning and skill-building activities
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Strengthen life skills, resilience, and community connections
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Access pathways to education, training, and future employment
The Regional Reset Program complements our other initiatives, providing young people with the extra support they need to step confidently into a positive future.
What's happening at Bilwon Farm?
Our vision for impact
We are building an environment that:
Strengthens cultural identity and community connection
Provides meaningful, paid work and skills development
Delivers accredited training and employment pathways
Supports long-term healing and mental wellbeing
Can be adapted and replicated across Australia
We acknowledge the generous support of our early partners and funders, including philanthropic trusts, government partners, and youth justice supporters who have helped us take the first steps. But we can’t do it alone. We invite funders, community partners, and supporters to join us in creating lasting change.
With gratitude
Frequency
One time
Weekly
Monthly
Yearly
Amount
$250
$1,000
$5,000
$10,000
Other
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