When Kate Jackson started Haus of Armour in 2022 she did it with the simple but powerful intention ‘to provide an alternative pathway of healing and recovery for women in the Northern Rivers who are survivors of domestic violence (DV), and to create a safe, supportive space where empowerment can begin again’.
Haus of Armour is a fashion styling studio that works with victim survivors of DV using ‘dress as a therapeutic tool to support women in rebuilding their self-worth, reclaiming their identity, and restoring their sense of self that is often lost through trauma and abuse,’ explains Kate.
‘For many women, choosing what to wear again is not just a style decision – it is an act of courage, ownership, and renewal. Each woman walks away with four outfits gifted to her without cost, but more importantly, she walks away with dignity, confidence, and a renewed connection to who she is. So many women have shared that this experience has significantly improved their mental health and overall wellbeing.’
Hero award
In December 2025 Kate received the Hunt for a Hero – Support and Caring Award from the Here For Good Foundation in Adelaide. The award recognised ‘her compassion and dedication to her not-for-profit. Kate has been awarded the Support and Caring Award as although she has partners who provide clothing for the clients, she is not paid for her work’.
‘When I received the email to say I was nominated and had won the award, I actually thought it was a hoax,’ Kate told The Echo.
‘I had my friend call to ensure it was legit! The award couldn’t have come at a better time. I had just received news that I had been unsuccessful with yet another grant. To be honest I was completely ready to give Haus of Armour up. The news I had won the award gave me the motivation to keep going.’
‘Right now, we are reaching out to the community for support. The immediate goal is simple but urgent: to secure enough funding to cover the rent and keep the studio’s doors open. Financial donations, no matter the size, will go directly toward keeping the studio operational.’
You can find out more at: www.hausofarmour.org or donate through the GoFundMe page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/haus-of-armour.
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