Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation

Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation (NCfR) has been working across Bougainville since 2001 to support women, children, families, and communities affected by gender-based violence and conflict. Through safe houses, counselling, referrals, youth programs, community education, peacebuilding, and advocacy, NCfR works to prevent violence, support healing, and promote gender equality.

NCfR was formed in response to Bougainville’s post-conflict context, recognising the urgent need to support healing, address violence, and help communities rebuild.

Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation AND IWDA

In partnership with IWDA, NCfR delivers the From Gender Based Violence to Gender Justice and Healing project, supporting Women Human Rights Defenders, Male Advocates, youth, and communities across Bougainville. The program strengthens local responses to family and sexual violence while promoting long-term social change, shared decision-making, and peacebuilding.

 

Quick Facts

  • Founded in 2001, NCfR has become a leading organisation supporting survivors of violence and promoting peace and healing across Bougainville.
  • NCfR is led by Sister Lorraine Garasu, a respected peacebuilder who has received both an Order of Australia and the US State Department’s International Woman of Courage Award.
  • NCfR is a key partner of the Autonomous Bougainville Government in responding to family and sexual violence and advancing gender equality.
  • They operate four Safe Houses in Arawa, Buin, Buka, and Chabai

Through their work they have:

  • Improved access to crisis support services through safe accommodation, counselling, referrals, healthcare access, legal support, and life skills training.
  • Strengthened women-led responses to family and sexual violence through training, support, and networking for Women Human Rights Defenders.
  • Increased engagement of men in prevention efforts through Male Advocate initiatives, awareness raising, counselling, and community outreach.
  • Expanded reach of prevention programs for children and young people through community education initiatives that promote non-violent attitudes and behaviours.
  • Seen positive community-level change including reduced violence, fewer family disputes, and stronger participation of women in leadership and decision-making.