Our History
Shakti Australia’s humble beginnings started over coffee sessions, when a group of Melbourne-based women health professionals from Asian, African and Middle Eastern backgrounds met together. With support from Shakti New Zealand it did not take long before words spread around the community. Two reactions from the women emerged. The first reaction was from women who needed help; each one with heart-breaking stories. The second group were women who were in the position to help. They came forward with skills, time and resources.
Supported by New Zealand, the journey began…
In Australia
- Shakti specialised in domestic violence crisis intervention embedded in culturally-sanctioned abuse practices such as forced marriage, child/under-aged marriage, dowry-related violence, female genital mutilation and threats of honour killing, with paramountcy on women’s and children’s rights to safety and justice in locally, nationally and internationally.
- Shakti in Australia had its origins through the backing of long-standing Shakti Community Council Inc. in New Zealand, established since 1995.
- Shakti Refugee and Migrant Women’s Support Group Melbourne Inc. was incorporated in Melbourne on October 27, 2011, following the formation of a Steering Group led by local women, and the founding members and senior members of Shakti New Zealand.
- Shakti Refugee and Migrant Women’s Support Group New South Wales Inc. was incorporated in 2012.
Our Mission
To facilitate and ensure the good health and overall well-being of Australia’s migrant and refugee communities through culturally competent services within a culturally appropriate environment.
Our Vision
To facilitate a harmonious, multicultural Australia:
- where all immigrants would be fully integrated into the Australian society in such a manner that they are able to exercise their rights and responsibilities
- where all immigrants can live a life of dignity, free from fear and violence
- where all immigrants can be recognised as valuable contributors to the community and the economy
Our Values
- Facilitating a ‘violence-free society’ with zero tolerance to violence and abuse against women and children
- Standing up and speaking out against all forms of discrimination, oppression and racism
- Sustainable community development through empowerment of women and young women
Our Funders
We will always be thankful to the Government agencies, private trusts, allied NGO partners and individual donors for believing in our vision and supporting our mission in Australia. These include Dandenong City Council, Knox City Council, Parramatta City Council, Families and Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA), Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand and Victorian Multicultural Commission.
