wayss

wayss assist people in the Southeast Region facing family violence and homelessness. Find out more at wayss.org.au.

Last week we officially opened Karinya, providing four secure and stable units for women and children seeking a fresh start. This achievement was made possible by the incredible generosity of philanthropist Margo Hartley and the City of Greater Dandenong, whose land donation turned an idea into reality. Karinya is more than housing. It represents hope, collaboration, and progress. To those who joined us, thank you for sharing this moment. Your support strengthens our shared mission to create positive change within our community.

Collaboration can spark incredible change when aligned with a shared purpose. This completed housing project is an example of just that. It was born out of a pressing need for housing in Dandenong and brought to life through the combined efforts of philanthropist Margo Hartley, the City of Greater Dandenong Council, and wayss. Four years ago, Margo partnered with Mayor Jim Mimeti to tackle the escalating homelessness crisis. With the expertise and support of wayss, their vision became a reality. Today, four two-bedroom units stand as a safe haven, offering shelter and hope to women and children in need. This is what happens when communities, local government, and philanthropy come together. We're proud to have been a part of it. More details in this video from 7NEWS Australia: https://lnkd.in/dBcNzBXZ

On International Women’s Day 2025, we recognise the women who make wayss' work possible and the women and girls we support. This year’s UN theme, For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment, is a reminder of the need for real opportunities and lasting change. In a world where women continue to face significant challenges, we honour the work of the women at wayss who are dedicated to creating change. We recognise how gendered disadvantage profoundly impacts the lives of women facing family violence and homelessness. Yesterday, members of the wayss team attended Cardinia Council’s International Women’s Day event, where guest speaker Zione Walker-Nthenda reflected on the experiences of her grandmother, mother, and herself, acknowledging both progress and ongoing challenges. The event also featured a powerful Māori dance performance by T'honi, demonstrating the unifying strength of art.

The Community Development Project (CDP) was a wayss initiative launched in January 2023, aimed at working with renters in our managed rooming houses to build safer, stronger, and more connected communities. The CDP started with a simple idea that grew into something much bigger than anyone expected. It started in the shared outdoor spaces of three rooming houses, bringing together over 28 renters. What began as bare patches of soil quickly grew into thriving community gardens, offering fresh produce and a strong sense of community. For many renters, life in a rooming house could feel isolating. The gardens became a space where they could step outside, get their hands in the soil, and connect with one another. Some arrived with gardening experience, eager to share their knowledge, while others learned as they went, finding joy in watching a tiny seed sprout into something they had nurtured. Morning and afternoon tea gatherings often took place in the gardens, where conversations grew as naturally as the plants themselves. As the project approached its two-year mark, the gardens had become more than just a CDP initiative, they were now an integral part of the renters' daily lives. Through seasons of planting, harvesting, and shared meals, the gardens proved that community isn’t just built, it’s grown, one seed at a time.

Valentine's Day is here, and our feeds are blooming with roses, chocolates, and grand gestures. But behind the glitter, it's easy to lose sight of what makes a relationship healthy. Today, our team members, who work closely with women experiencing family violence, have shared some key “green flags” to look for - signs of respect, trust, and kindness that build strong, meaningful connections.

May your holiday season be safe, merry and bright. 📅 wayss opening hours: Open: Everyday except public holidays 9am – 5pm Closed: Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day

We welcome our new board members, Nigel McCormick, Jonathan Halaliku, and Daniel Scoullar, to wayss. Their collective expertise in public service, urban planning, housing, and social justice will greatly strengthen our mission to support individuals and families in need, driving meaningful impact in our community. Nigel joins us with a strong background in public service, financial strategy, and not-for-profit leadership. He is deeply committed to social justice and supporting individuals and families in need. We're confident that Nigel’s expertise and dedication will play a key role as we continue to enhance our services and drive meaningful impact in local communities. Jonathan brings extensive experience in housing, urban planning, and development advisory. With qualifications in Applied Economics and a Master’s in Environment and Planning, he brings trusted knowledge from both the private and public sectors. His experience will be invaluable in helping wayss address complex housing and planning challenges with confidence and precision. Daniel offers over 15 years of experience in policy, communications, and advocacy across the not-for-profit and government sectors. From driving major policy reforms to championing crucial community initiatives, his strategic insights will be invaluable in tackling homelessness and housing challenges.

1 in 4 Australian women—2.3 million people—have faced violence from an intimate partner since turning 15 (AIHW). These numbers are devastating, but they aren’t just numbers. This #16DaysOfActivism, wayss reminds you: there is a way out. You deserve safety. Reach out for help. 

During the #16DaysOfActivism, we pause to honour women who have lost their lives to gender-based violence and recognise those who live in its shadow daily. In 2024, that count is now at 89.