This empowering program is designed to equip women with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves in various real-life situations. Safety is paramount and this course aims to instil confidence, awareness and practical self-defence techniques. This course is run by experienced instructor Gary Finch and covers a range of topics related to personal safety and practical self-defence techniques. Furthermore, Gary is an appointed South Australian White Ribbon Ambassador and provides support and information sessions to various interest and community groups promoting the overall safety of Women in our society today. PLEASE NOTE there will be close engagement with other participants during the exercises. We assume that you have consulted your doctor before enrolling in this course if you have any doubts about your state of health or physical ability.

Self Defence for Women

Course Description

Self Defence for Women is a practical, supportive, and empowering program designed to help women build confidence, awareness, and the skills needed to protect themselves in everyday situations. 

This course delivers a safe and encouraging environment to explore personal safety and master easy-to-learn self-defence techniques. 

Whether you're looking to boost confidence, improve situational awareness, or simply feel more secure in your daily life, this course offers powerful tools for personal empowerment.

Participants will learn to assess and respond to potential threats with calm, confidence, and clarity. 

You’ll engage in both physical techniques and thoughtful discussions about emotional strength, boundary-setting, and personal empowerment. 

The course encourages connection and support between women, with a focus on real-world application, personal growth, and lasting peace of mind. 

No prior experience is required.

Course Structure

Each week, participants will build on their knowledge and skills through a combination of practical demonstrations, group activities, and supportive discussions. 

The course begins with personal safety awareness and identifying common risk scenarios, then moves into physical self-defence techniques including stance, blocks, strikes, and escapes. 

As confidence builds, participants will practise these skills in role-play exercises and receive feedback tailored to their abilities. 

Sessions also include opportunities for reflection, sharing, and building resilience in a respectful, women-focused space.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Recognise and assess personal safety risks in everyday settings.
• Apply basic, effective self-defence techniques to deter or escape an attacker.
• Move with greater confidence and self-assurance.
• Develop heightened situational awareness to identify and avoid potential threats.
• Respond to stressful situations with calm and clarity.
• Understand the importance of boundaries and assertive communication.
• Foster a sense of community and support with other participants.
• Feel more secure in public and private spaces.
• Access ongoing safety resources and support networks.
• Take positive steps toward emotional empowerment and personal resilience.

Your Tutor is Gary Finch

Gary has been teaching at the WEA since 2024.

Gary is an appointed South Australian White Ribbon Ambassador and provides support and information presentations and sessions to various interest and community groups promoting the overall safety of Women in our society today.