About us
Bringing Hope, Help and Recognition
Lifeboat Survivors Support was established in response to the needs expressed by survivors themselves.
Many had spent years living with the effects of church-related abuse, including sexual, physical, emotional and spiritual abuse. What they sought was not only practical assistance, but recognition of the harm they had experienced and the opportunity to rebuild trust, connection and hope.
Founded in 2013 by Fr Kevin Dillon AM, Lifeboat has grown into an organisation that supports people across Australia whose lives have been affected by church-related abuse, including survivors and their families.
Lifeboat stands alongside survivors and their families, offering practical help, understanding and support. We recognise that the effects of abuse are different for every person, and we are committed to treating each individual with compassion, dignity and respect.
It can take years - and sometimes decades - before people feel able to speak about what happened to them. Lifeboat is here to listen and provide support when it is needed.
You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable sharing.
What We Do
Lifeboat provides practical, personal and pastoral support through:
- Practical assistance for those experiencing financial hardship or unexpected challenges.
- Individual emotional support, encouragement and connection through trusted volunteers and staff.
- Information, guidance and support to help people access education, employment opportunities and other community services.
- Referrals to professional services and community resources when specialist support is needed.
- Advocacy and assistance in accessing support services.
- Opportunities to build self-esteem, self-worth, dignity and confidence as people work towards greater independence.
- Opportunities for social connection, participation and meaningful community involvement.
Our Approach
At Lifeboat, we believe that support begins with recognition.
Every person deserves to be listened to, believed and treated with dignity and respect. We strive to create an environment where people feel safe, respected and supported.
Our work is guided by compassion, confidentiality and respect. We are committed to protecting people’s privacy and standing alongside survivors and their families, offering practical help, understanding and support whenever it is needed.
Our Values
Lifeboat’s work is guided by a commitment to:
Compassion – responding with care and understanding.
Respect – treating every person with dignity and without judgement.
Confidentiality – protecting privacy and maintaining trust.
Recognition – acknowledging the lasting impact of abuse.
Practical Support – providing help when it is needed most.
Hope – helping people look to the future with confidence.
Our Vision
A just and compassionate society where every person is treated with dignity and respect.