For most of her young life, Melvina*, endured more fear than freedom. Her childhood was cut short when she was married while still in Grade 6 at a primary school in Port Moresby.
From 2023, Melvina* experienced ongoing Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) forcing her to move between provinces and homes as decisions about her life were made without her consent. In early 2024, she was brought to Port Moresby with the promise of a better future. Instead, she found herself isolated, abandoned, and vulnerable.
In October 2025, the violence escalated. Melvina was physically assaulted by a family member, leaving her frightened, injured, and unsure how she could protect herself and her child.
Everything began to change when Melvina was referred to Femili PNG by the Hohola Family and Sexual Violence Unit. For the first time, she was not asked to endure in silence. She and her child were taken to safety at a Safe House, where they received shelter, care, and dignity at a time when they needed it most.
With support of Femili PNG, Melvina found the courage to step forward. An Interim Protection Order (IPO) was successfully granted and served, something she never believed was possible. For years, the law had felt distant and unreachable. Now, it stood beside her.
Reflecting on the support she received, Melvina said:
“Mi pilim hamamas. Bipo mi no bin pilim law. Nau mi pilim tru. Tenkyu tumas Femili PNG.” (I am happy. I can truly see the impact of law on my case. Thank you Femili PNG).
Melvina’s journey is a powerful reminder that behind every case is a human life, a mother, a daughter, a survivor. Her story shows that with the right support, fear can be transformed into strength and silence into hope.
Thank you, Australian Government, for its continued support through PNG-Australia Partnership, enabling Bel isi Case Management to stand alongside survivors like Melvina.
* Name changed to protect identity
