Breaking the Silence: Kate Littlejohn’s Journey from Banker to Bravehearts Advocate for Child Safety

Kate Littlejohn, a former NAB business banker turned director of a commercial and mortgage finance brokerage and Bravehearts ambassador, shares her personal journey from finance to frontline advocacy for child sexual abuse prevention and support. In this episode Kate explains how a chance encounter with the Bravehearts 777 event transformed her life: she publicly disclosed that she is a survivor of repeated child sexual abuse, raised the most funds nationally for the event, trained from zero to run 14 km in four weeks, and later jumped from a plane for Bravehearts Day. She describes Bravehearts’ practical work — Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure program in schools and childcare, trauma assessment and counselling services, a crisis hotline, and a suite of free resources for parents and caregivers — and why education, early prevention and breaking the silence are critical. Kate also reflects on balancing family life, running a business, and using her platform to normalize conversations that protect children and support survivors. Key takeaways: - Bravehearts focuses on prevention, treatment and education: Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure, counselling, crisis support and free parental guides. - Speaking openly about abuse reduces stigma and creates opportunities for prevention and healing. - Community fundraising and awareness events (777 marathon, Bravehearts Day) amplify resources and reach. - Practical next steps for parents: learn the signs, use available resources, and keep conversations about safety active and age-appropriate. For more information on Bravehearts resources referenced in the episode, visit bravehearts.org.au.