Every woman deserves a fair go — and Natascha, Employment and training program coordinator of Success Works, is proving that second chances can truly change lives.

Through her vision and dedication, Success Works empowers women with a criminal record to rebuild their confidence, find meaningful employment, and regain independence. Partnering with businesses and community organizations, the team provides tailored job placement, training, and holistic support to help women thrive both personally and professionally.

Their mission is simple yet powerful — to break cycles of disadvantage and open doors to new beginnings.

💡What inspired Success Works?

The idea behind Success Works began with Megan Ethridge, co-founder of Dress for Success. While helping women prepare for job interviews, Megan saw that many faced deeper barriers than just finding the right outfit. Determined to make a greater difference, she founded the Success Works Program to shift how society views and recruits’ women with a record.

In 2022, it became a not-for-profit organisation, proudly employing women with lived experience to lead the way for others.

🚧 What challenges do women face with a criminal record?

Women with a record often carry more than just the weight of their past — they face stigma, judgment, and exclusion. Finding a job or education opportunity can feel impossible, and legal, financial, or mental health challenges make it even harder to start over. Many have also experienced trauma or family violence, which compounds the struggle.
Success Works is here to change that narrative — replacing barriers with belief, and judgment with opportunity.

🤝 How does Success Works support them back into work?

The Success Works team walks beside each woman every step of the way. From one-on-one mentoring and job readiness training to resume support and interview preparation, every service is trauma-informed and tailored to individual needs. They also connect participants with housing, mental health, and legal support — ensuring that rebuilding a life goes beyond just finding a job.

Their partnerships with inclusive employers are breaking stigma in workplaces and creating sustainable employment pathways for women ready to turn their lives around.

🌈 A story of hope: Meet Marie

Marie’s journey reminds us that change is always possible. After her release, life felt overwhelming — until she found Success Works. With support and encouragement, she rebuilt her confidence, learned new skills, and secured employment.

 

“Success Works helped me start to feel better about myself and I began to believe in myself again,”
Marie shares.
Today, she’s proud to provide for her young son and live with financial independence.
👉 Read Marie’s full story here

📞 Need a second chance or want to help?

Reach out today — because behind every door, there’s a story worth rewriting.
📞 1800 255 736

🌐 successworks.org.au/contact

Follow their journey and be part of the change:
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