Group survival and protection training for women and girls Gold Coast

Small group courses for women, teens, girls and seniors at our studio in Westfield Helensvale. Train alongside other women, guided by our female facilitators, in a space that feels nothing like a regular dojo or gym.

Our group classes run when grants and donations allow. When a course is running, you'll find it below. When it isn't, join the waitlist and we'll let you know first.

Current and upcoming courses

Monday nights - open women’s casual self-defence classes

Box & Bloom

Women-only beginner boxing classes

Box & Bloom is a beginner boxing and fitness class for women, launching in 2027. It's separate from our survival and protection training. The focus is fitness, fun and learning boxing basics, and profits help fund our charity work.

Interested to learn more? Get in touch.

More classes to come

Our ability to offer group classes from our studio and within the community depends on the generous support of grants and donations. This means we frequently update this section.

For the most up-to-date announcements, follow us on Instagram or Facebook!

What participants are saying

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“…gained so much valuable knowledge…“

The space is so calming and the reception ladies were super nice and helpful. Amanda was the most amazing teacher, she was very patient, kind and helpful and I gained so much valuable knowledge on boxing. I felt so included and comfortable during this class and can’t wait to come back.

Sophie H - Google Review →

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“…can be applied to real life situations“

Had a wonderful 10 fun weeks with a wonderful small group practicing basic self defence skills that can be applied to real life situations. Thank you Mylan!

Fiona - Google Review →

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“…life changing“

Seriously ladies, this is life changing. They meet you where you are. The classes are casual and non judgmental. There genuine passion for the program shines. If you don't know where to start. Don't know how, this is the place. Empower yourself.

A L - Google Review →

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Easy and considerate learning“

Great class. Expert instructors. Easy and considerate learning. Beneficial for all age women. Instructors happy to work with suggestions. I found I preferred more practical and Instructors happy to accommodate request.

Adriana C - Google Review →

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“…taught me some practical skills that I hope I never have to use“

I was referred to Fierce Females when I sought out self defence classes after a traumatic event. I didn't know what to expect but from my first meeting I was put at ease. I could pick a session time that suited my work schedule which helped me commit to booking. I leant things about myself that I didnt even know i did when i feel uncomfortable. Amanda helped me to push myself out of my comfort zone and taught me some practical skills that I hope I never have to use. I was made to feel welcome, heard and safe (and the exercise helped too).

Adine W - Google Review →

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“…should be mandatory at schools“

Extremely empowering, educational and life changing! Much more than expected, especially for such a small investment. Amanda is absolutely awesome, instructing us with kindness, respect while teaching us bad ass defense moves! Most important, was learning how to respect ourselves, by using our brain, body and voice to protect ourselves! Recommend to all females of any age, should be mandatory at schools. Super grateful for all that Amanda and her Fierce Females are doing for our community 🙏🥰🤩

Imelda W - Google Review →

What you’ll learn

Our small-group courses let you learn at your own pace, so as long as you are comfortable, we can create a great learning experience. Our classes combine mind-and-body training:

  1. Situational awareness: reading situations and people, and noticing warning signs earlier.

  2. Verbal de-escalation: using your voice and body language to calm or exit a situation.

  3. Understanding fear: why the body freezes under threat, and how training can help you interrupt the freeze response.

  4. Physical skills: striking and escaping holds, practised safely on pads and training equipment.

Real situations are unpredictable, so we teach adaptable responses rather than set routines. Skills build with practice, and each week builds on the last.

If you’re unsure about anything, please get in touch, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

woman in self defence training class with wrist straps

What to bring

When attending one of our group sessions, it's important to come prepared with:

  • A water bottle: we have a water bottle refill station at the studio to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the class

  • Comfortable athletic clothing: to allow for freedom of movement (note: skirts and dresses aren’t recommended. We’d recommend 3/4 or full-length leggings)

  • Towel: stay comfortable and wipe away perspiration during breaks

No need to bring any note-taking materials; we will email you with the course content after the class. 

You may have seen us on

We’re a female-led PBI Charity certified by the ACNC, operating from the Gold Coast. By teaching women and girls practical survival and self-defence skills, we’re supporting women before, during and after violence.

Media coverage and support from our local councils, community organisations and national foundations have helped us reach women who might not otherwise know we exist, and help make our training possible.

firefly initiative logo

Thanks to the ongoing support from partners, including:

Support our work

Every paid session and workshop helps fund training for women who couldn't otherwise access it. As a PBI charity registered with the ACNC, we rely on donations, grants and partners to reach the women who need us most.

Sponsor →

Sponsor a program, fund regional workshops or bring training into your workplace.

Volunteer →

Help as a facilitator, at events or behind the scenes.

Donate →

Fund training for women and girls, in person and in regional communities.