Family tragedy puts Nathan on a path to help others

Nathan Costigan is a man on a mission sparked by a family tragedy.

Until his cousin Tara Costigan was murdered by her partner in 2015, domestic violence was not part of his world.

Three years on Nathan is digging deep to help other families escape violence and avoid the same grief.

He does this as a volunteer for the Tara Costigan Foundation, established by his uncle.

“My motivator is to give families the opportunity that they deserve, particularly the children,” says the devoted father and husband.

Dedicated social workers known as Tara’s Angels are currently helping 17 families who have escaped violence move on to normal lives.

Nathan volunteers his time as an ambassador to raise funds. He is a well-known and respected Canberra resident and people listen when he talks about the cost and devastation of family violence.

“Our catchphrase is respectful relationships,” says Nathan.

“That’s across every single thing we do in life. We have to be respectful and kind and it will make the world a better place.”

Sometimes it’s the simple things Nathan does that helps keep survivors safe.

He recalls one woman who was so overwhelmed by her huge, overgrown yard that she almost called her former abuser for help, 12 months after she escaped. Nathan, who has a fencing business, popped over with three of his workers in their lunch-break. They had the garden tip-top in 45 minutes.

“The stress relief for her was massive,” says Nathan.

Nathan is proud to be voted a Westfield Local Hero. “I am almost speechless to be recognised in Canberra with so many good people out there.”

The $10,000 grant to the Tara Costigan is invaluable and will help fund another Tara’s Angel.

Tara’s Angels are qualified, experienced and devoted social workers /caseworkers, who are provided free of charge to people who have escaped a violent relationship. Tara’s Angels provide up to 2 years of support to help navigate a complex web of services and overcome personal barriers.

“It costs over $160,000 to keep an Angel,” says Nathan.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here.