Women’s Community Shelters Limited

Women’s Community Shelters Limited is an Australian charity dedicated to addressing the urgent issue of female homelessness and domestic violence by providing safe crisis accommodation for women and children. Operating primarily in New South Wales, it works closely with local communities to establish new shelters that offer emergency housing and support services, aiming to create an Australia where women are safe, secure, supported, and equal.

Mission and Vision

The organisation’s mission is to deliver innovative, community-driven crisis accommodation and support that empowers women and children experiencing homelessness or fleeing domestic and family violence. Its vision is an Australia where every woman has access to safe housing and the necessary support to rebuild her life with dignity and independence.

Main Objectives

• To establish and operate safe crisis accommodation options for women and children in need.
• To provide client-centred case management that addresses the complex needs of residents, including counselling, health care, legal assistance, and education.
• To engage and empower local communities through volunteering, fundraising, and awareness-raising activities.
• To develop sustainable partnerships with government, philanthropy, and business to fund and support shelters.
• To promote best practice and continuous improvement in shelter operations and governance.

Benefiting Groups

The primary beneficiaries are women and children who are homeless or at risk due to domestic and family violence. The shelters also support women facing multiple challenges such as mental health issues and financial hardship, providing culturally appropriate care and a supportive communal living environment.

Types of Services and Activities

• Emergency crisis accommodation offering short-term, safe housing in a communal setting staffed by professional, all-female teams.
• Case management and outreach programs that assist women transitioning to independent living and provide early intervention support to those at risk.
• Access to support services including counselling, health care, legal advice, and assistance navigating government systems.
• Community engagement through volunteer programs, fundraising events, and educational initiatives such as respectful relationship training in schools.
• Governance and operational support to local shelter boards to ensure effective management and sustainable outcomes.

Women’s Community Shelters Limited relies on vital donations to maintain and expand its services, as government funding covers only a portion of operating costs. The organisation’s innovative social franchise model fosters collaboration between communities, government, and philanthropy to meet the growing demand for safe accommodation and support for vulnerable women and children.