The Western Australian Council of Social Service Inc (WACOSS) is a nonprofit peak body organisation dedicated to advancing social justice and equity in Western Australia. Established to represent and strengthen the community services sector within the state, WACOSS works closely with communities and decision-makers to drive social change through collective action and policy development.

Vision and Purpose

WACOSS envisions an inclusive, just, and equitable society where all individuals and communities have opportunities to contribute and thrive. The organisation’s primary purpose is to lead and enable systemic change that dismantles entrenched poverty, inequity, and social exclusion. It prioritises amplifying the voices and concerns of those furthest from power, advocating on their behalf to shape policies and systems for the benefit of all Western Australians.

Activities and Role

As the peak body for Western Australia's community service sector, WACOSS plays a critical role in:

• Facilitating collective action among community groups and stakeholders.
• Formulating and influencing policy to promote social justice.
• Strengthening the capacity and effectiveness of community services.
• Advocating for equitable outcomes in areas such as poverty alleviation, health, housing, and family support.

WACOSS challenges prevailing social and cultural norms, promotes community empathy, and develops alternative solutions to systemic issues perpetuating disadvantage.

Partnerships

WACOSS collaborates with the national Council of Social Service network, being one of nine peak councils across Australia. This partnership ensures that the perspectives and needs of Western Australians are represented in broader national social policy discussions.

Membership and Community Engagement

The organisation supports a broad membership base of over 300 entities from the community services sector. It encourages all Western Australians to participate in driving social change alongside its members.

Impact and Influence

WACOSS is recognised for its advocacy on behalf of vulnerable populations and has welcomed government commitments aimed at reducing financial pressures on struggling households. Its efforts contribute to shaping a social policy environment focused on justice, inclusion, and empowerment.

WACOSS’s commitment to creating healthy, active, and inclusive communities makes it a vital organisation within Western Australia’s social service landscape, continually working to ensure that help is available to those in need without political bias or barriers.

ABN: 32201266289RR0001

[1] https://www.wacoss.org.au [2] https://www.wacoss.org.au/about-wacoss/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/54ceb315-2caf-e811-a961-000d3ad24182/profile [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Council_of_Social_Service [5] https://www.shelterwa.org.au/shelter_wa_members/wa-council-of-social-services/