About RizeUp

RizeUp Australia is a community-driven organisation of passionate men and women, dedicated to supporting the many families affected by domestic and family violence.

Whilst we raise awareness through speaking engagements, the victims of Family and Domestic Violence need more than talk. They need practical help – and they need it fast! That’s where RizeUp makes a very real difference. We have created various programs to support and empower the brave families via the specialist domestic and family violence organisations (for security reasons, we do not directly meet the families we support) – from helping to create a new home for victims fleeing a violent household and supporting children in their healing process, to raising much-needed funds for families left with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Founded by CEO Nicolle Edwards and joined by an outstanding team of men and women from all walks of life, along with Patrons Sam Collins, Bianca Stone, Shelley Craft, Mia Freedman, Petero Civoniceva, Simone O’Brien and Cameron and Allison Daddo.

Our Programs

Health & Wellbeing Program

The health and wellbeing program for RizeUp encompasses providing access to a range of support services, including specialist counselling, physical health resources, and emotional support designed to help individuals rebuild their lives. Our aim is to break down the many financial barriers that prevent victim-survivors from accessing holistic care that addresses both immediate needs and long-term well-being.

AT HOME

The cornerstone of RizeUp's endeavours, the 'Homes Program,' is revolutionary. Living free from violence begins with having a safe, comfortable home. We create sanctuaries of comfort, support, and security by furnishing homes for families emerging from traumatic circumstances. RizeUp meticulously tailors each residence to meet individual needs, affirming that victim-survivors are not just escaping violence but are embarking on a journey of recovery, strength, hope, and new beginnings.

RAPID RESPONSE

Designed to meet the diverse needs of families fleeing domestic violence (this could include food, blankets, urgent funds, etc.) quickly and efficiently.

YESS

The RizeUp Youth Program provides young people access to essential school resources and extracurricular activities, supporting their educational needs and personal growth. The program focuses on reducing social isolation and helping young people feel more included among their peers. It prevents them from feeling left out or different and fosters a sense of belonging, stability, and community.

Meet our Founder and CEO

Nicolle Edwards

Nicolle Edwards is the powerhouse Founder and CEO of RizeUp Australia, a national charity transforming the lives of individuals and families fleeing domestic and family violence. Since 2015, Nicolle has built an organisation that delivers urgent, practical support to victim-survivors—restoring dignity and creating safe, hope-filled new beginnings.

A sought-after speaker and media commentator, Nicolle has delivered a powerful TEDx talk and regularly features on podcasts and news platforms. Her work has earned national recognition, including the Westfield Local Hero award (twice), Excellence in Volunteer Management, Women of the Year People's Choice, and Angels Among Us.

Originally from Zimbabwe and now based on the Gold Coast, Nicolle leads a movement of over 1,600 volunteers across Australasia. Fiercely passionate and purpose-driven, she believes that safety is a right, not a privilege—and through RizeUp, she's helping entire communities rise together.

“Nicolle Edwards is, quite simply, one of the most compelling speakers I have encountered in more than two decades of corporate communications. Her ability to convey the sheer scale and gravity of Australia’s domestic-violence crisis is matched only by the authenticity with which she tells the stories of those RizeUp serves. With pitch-perfect cadence and absolute command of the room, Nicolle held every member of our audience spellbound - no small feat in a hall of seasoned professionals accustomed to polished presentations. Her words resonated long after the lights came up, inspiring genuine commitment to action. If your organisation seeks a speaker who both informs and galvanises, Nicolle is the benchmark.”

— Stewart Bunn, Communications and Corporate Affairs Manager, First National Real Estate