In this episode of the She Served AU Podcast, I am honoured to introduce our very first guest, the extraordinary Melisa Western — artist, trauma-informed coach, and a woman doing deeply meaningful work in the space of healing through creative practice.

Melisa’s work focuses on supporting survivors of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and sexual violence (SV) through art.

Her approach is thoughtful, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that creativity can open doors to healing when words alone are not enough. For many survivors, art becomes a language of its own — a way to process experiences, reclaim voice, and reconnect with self.

During this conversation we talk about the power of creative expression, the importance of safe spaces for veterans and survivors, and why trauma-informed art practice matters. Melisa shares insights into her process, the people she works with, and the impact that creative healing can have for those navigating life after trauma.

I am incredibly proud that Melisa has joined She Served AU as our Artist in Residence for the She Spoke in Silence project — an initiative designed to create supportive art-based spaces for women who served. Her work is already making waves, and she is absolutely a name to watch in this field.

This episode is also a heartfelt thank you to Melisa for being the very first voice to step into the She Served AU podcast space. Her generosity, wisdom, and commitment to helping others shine through every part of this conversation.

If you would like to learn more about Melisa and her work, you can visit her website:

www.melisawesterndesign.art

Thank you for listening and for supporting the stories, voices, and creative healing journeys of those who served.

Support the show

Listener Care Notice: Trigger Warning
This episode discusses military service, trauma, and related experiences that may be confronting for some listeners. Please use personal discretion while listening.

If any of the topics raised are triggering or bring up difficult emotions, support is available through Athena Project Australia.

Website: https://athenaproject.org.au

Phone: 1800 943 539

You are not alone, and reaching out is a sign of strength.

In this episode of the She Served AU Podcast, Natasha Hilbers introduces the concept behind the Australian Female Veteran Scarf Initiative — a simple, visible gesture of recognition for women who have served in the Australian Defence Force.

For decades, Australian women served in uniform while often remaining largely unseen in the national narrative of military service. Many carried out their duties quietly, without ceremony, recognition, or representation.

The scarf initiative is designed as a respectful acknowledgement of that service.

The idea is straightforward: one nationally designed scarf issued once to every verified Australian female veteran - for collection at Australia Post.

#NoDataHarvesting

Not merchandise. Not a fundraiser.

Simply a dignified symbol of service that women can choose to wear, keep, or pass on.

The scarf represents the silent service — the women who stood watch, worked in operational roles, supported units across Australia and overseas, and continued serving their families and communities long after they removed the uniform.

This episode explores why visibility matters, why recognition can still be meaningful decades later, and how small national gestures can help reshape the way Australia understands who served.

Natasha also speaks about the broader mission of She Served AU, a platform dedicated to telling the stories of women veterans and supporting initiatives that bring their experiences into public view.

The scarf initiative is not about creating division or special treatment. It is about ensuring that when the story of Australian service is told, women are not left out of the frame.

Because she served.

And that service deserves to be seen.

#NotAFootnote

#SilentService

Support the show

Listener Care Notice: Trigger Warning
This episode discusses military service, trauma, and related experiences that may be confronting for some listeners. Please use personal discretion while listening.

If any of the topics raised are triggering or bring up difficult emotions, support is available through Athena Project Australia.

Website: https://athenaproject.org.au

Phone: 1800 943 539

You are not alone, and reaching out is a sign of strength.