About Us

The Western Australian Council of Social Service (WACOSS) is the peak body for the community services sector in WA. It was founded in 1956.

Our members work across every issue that touches people’s live: poverty, housing, health, education, family violence, digital inclusion, food security, justice, disability, aged care and disaster resilience.

At the heart of this work are the people and communities who are most vulnerable — those facing injustice, exclusion and disadvantage every day. Whether it’s families struggling to afford housing, women and children escaping violence, people living with disability or communities left behind by economic and social systems, our sector stands with them.

Our sector generates about $16 billion a year, employs more than 72,000 people and engages more than 111,000 volunteers. It is a major employer of women.

Our History

1956

WACOSS was established in 1956, and whilst our vision has remained constant, we have grown in impact and in size.

2016

In 2016 we celebrated 60 years of continuous support and advocacy within the community, but we can reflect and acknowledge that there is more work to be done.