Our History
World YWCA is a global network of women leading social and economic change in over 120 countries worldwide. Our global organisation advocates for peace, justice, human rights and care for the environment and has been at the forefront of raising the status of women for more than a century. Each year, it reaches more than 25 million women and girls through work in over 22,000 communities.
YWCA NSW was established in 1880 with a focus on supporting, educating and providing safe harbour for women. Over time, our work has expanded and includes programs and services for a wider community in terms of gender, age, cultural backgrounds and beliefs.
Take a step through the History of the YWCA NSW
YWCA NSW had the first Women's Cricket Team
YWCA was responsible for the first Employment Agency for Women in 1890
YWCA NSW assembled the first Women's Rowing Team
YWCA NSW created the first Cafeteria for city workers in 1890
As one of Australia's oldest not for profits, YWCA NSW celebrates a lot of firsts
YWCA NSW has been providing day care services since 1972
YWCA NSW organised the first Women's Team to play organised Hockey
YWCA NSW built the first Women's Gymnasium in 1912
YWCA NSW represented the WAAF AWAS and the Australian Nursing Service in 1942
YWCA NSW Youth Programs looked different in the 1970's
Our Vision
Be the place & the voice of women in Australia
Our mission
To build a strong, disruptive, independent organisation of women, for women
Our purpose
Building a better Australia through the power of women