Local business raising funds for domestic violence

One Dakabin local has taken advocacy into her own hands by launching a business that supports domestic and family violence charities.

Business owner Amy Rastall started Handlesbyamy in November 2023 after her harrowing experience with domestic violence.

Through determination and support from her family, Amy decided to start a business to raise money for the charities she cares about.

“Being a survivor of domestic and sexual violence, I realised how crucial it was for survivors to have the right support,” Amy says.

“I started my business as a practical means for me to raise funds for the charities I am passionate about.”

As a personal trainer, Ms Australia 2024 finalist and body building competitor, Amy felt that creating a fitness-based product most aligned with her passions.

“(As a) personal trainer…I saw a need in the market to have stylish and practical gym bags, as at present, there is not a big supply of them,” Amy says.

“My bags have been well designed with lots of pockets and compartments, including a shoe section underneath the bag for athletes wanting to put their posing heels in a separate space.”

With the recent success of her business, Amy was able to become an official sponsor for charities, Rize Up Australia and Destiny Rescue, with 50 percent of all profits going directly to these charities.

“It means the world for me to be an approved sponsor for both these charities, as both are doing such a wonderful job in supporting survivors of abuse both nationally and internationally,” Amy says.

Since launching Handlesbyamy, Amy has sold close to 80 bags and has raised $2400 for charity.

“The community has really backed my vision and supported me, and I am so grateful for that,” Amy explains.

Amy plans to expand her business in the future, where she hopes to launch pink bags for Breast Cancer Australia, raise funds for Suicide Prevention Australia and sell other gym products, including bum bags, yoga mats, Pilates socks and water bottles.

“I want my business to have a positive impact in the community not just locally, but also globally,” she says.

“As a survivor, I can say to all survivors, we are all queens and kings, we are all beautiful, we are worthy of good things and we all have an amazing purpose. Never allow abuse, current or past, to define your worth!”

Keep up to date with Amy’s business ventures here.