Self Defence Courses & Classes

Feel Empowered, Safe, and Supported

Welcome to Self Defence Hub — the right place if you're looking to learn real, practical self-defence from a woman who gets it. Founded in 2014 by award-winning instructor Andre Conate, our programs are shaped by over 30 years of martial arts experience and lived experience navigating personal safety.

We’re more than a training centre — we’re a community built on empowerment, healing, and strength. If you've ever thought self-defence looked too hard or intimidating, you're in the right place. We make it simple, approachable, and even fun.

At Self Defence Hub, you’ll:

Train in a supportive, safe space where every question is welcome.
Learn in small group settings, so you’ll never feel like just a number.
Get individual attention from an experienced, female-led team.
Explore techniques drawn from a range of martial arts — tailored to real-world situations.

Whether you’re building confidence, recovering from past trauma, or just want to know you can protect yourself or your loved ones — we’re here to show you how powerful you really are.

Self-defence is easier than you think. And you're stronger than you know.

Send Andre a text

Safe & Fun Self Defence Classes

Frequently Asked Questions about Self Defence

What is the legal definition of self defence?

In Australia, the legal definition of self-defence involves a combination of subjective and objective tests, where the accused must have believed their actions were necessary to defend themselves or others, and those actions must be reasonable in the circumstances.

The definition of self-defence varies slightly across different states and territories, but it generally allows a person to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from harm.

Key Aspects of Self-Defence Law in Australia:

Reasonable Belief: The person claiming self-defence must have believed on reasonable grounds that their actions were necessary to protect themselves or another person from harm. This belief must be both subjectively held by the accused and objectively reasonable from the perspective of an ordinary person in the same situation.

Proportionate Response: The response must be proportionate to the threat faced. For example, using a similar level of force as the threat is generally considered reasonable, whereas a significantly greater use of force may not be justified. The principle of proportionality ensures that the defensive action matches the level of danger presented.

Please keep in mind, this was not written by a lawyer so consult a professional if you have any questions.

Can I carry a weapon for self defence?

Self-defence is not a lawful excuse for carrying controlled weapon or dangerous articles. See: police.vic.gov.au

Can I carry capsicum or pepper spray to protect myself?

No. It is not legal to carry any article designed or adapted to discharge an offensive, noxious or irritant liquid, powder, gas or chemical so as to cause disability, incapacity or harm to another person.

Upcoming self defence workshops

Women's Only Self Defence Workshop

Half Day Workshop

Our Half Day Self Defence Workshop is specifically for people who want to learn effective self defence techniques and build a little muscle memory to help you execute move faster.