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Stories

Stories of resilience and hope from wayss 
 

On our social media platforms we share information about family violence, homelessness, and the uplifting stories of individuals we’ve supported on their journey. These stories highlight the urgent issues of family violence, housing insecurity, and homelessness in the southeast region of Victoria.  

By amplifying the voices of those directly impacted, along with community advocates and social workers, we strive to raise awareness and deepen understanding of these critical topics. We invite you to join us in exploring these compelling narratives and discover how we’re working to make a difference.  

Watch the stories below. 

Every year, National Child Protection Week promotes a safe and supported life for every child. This year’s theme, ‘Every Conversation Matters,’ resonates with us. At wayss, we see the daily impacts of homelessness and family violence on children. The 2024 Child Homelessness Snapshot revealed over 25,000 children were homeless in 2022-23, marking a 3.2% increase nationwide. Additionally, children remain at high risk of family, domestic, and sexual violence: about 1 in 8 adults witnessed violence towards a parent before the age of 15, with higher rates of violence against mothers. While there have been steps forward, more needs to be done. We join the sector in making every conversation count this National Child Protection Week.
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Every year, National Child Protection Week promotes a safe and supported life for every child....

The Australian Homelessness Conference 2024, themed "Gathering Momentum," brought together around 800 delegates for two days of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions, and wayss’ Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Sonia and Steve were there. Hosted by the Government of South Australia and AHURI, the event featured influential voices from both national and international organisations having important conversations about homelessness. Shari McPhail facilitated the panel ‘Effective and Innovative Responses to Domestic and Family Violence related Homelessness.’ The conference highlighted the lived experience of homelessness, which, for these delegates, takes a unique kind of courage. The important insights that were shared can help us to identify shortcomings, improve systems and develop more equitable and effective programs. We’re looking forward to continuing the conversation with the sector as we move towards the changes that are needed.
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The Australian Homelessness Conference 2024, themed "Gathering Momentum," brought together around 800 delegates for two...
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Join us in raising awareness and offering support this Homelessness Week.

In 2021–22, Victorian services assisted 102,000 people experiencing homelessness. The demand for services in Victoria is overwhelming, yet resources are scarce. This #HomelessnessWeek - and every week - we need to address this crisis with urgency and compassion.
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In 2021–22, Victorian services assisted 102,000 people experiencing homelessness. The demand for services in Victoria...
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Frontline family violence workers like Elizabeth do essential work that makes a huge impact in...

During @naidocweek Week, the wayss team marked the week by attending events across the southeast region. Team members proudly attended a Flag Raising Ceremony to acknowledge the start of NAIDOC week at @willumwarrain Aboriginal Association in Hastings. They joined NAIDOC Fest at the Casey Aboriginal Gathering Place in Doveton, participating in a powerful smoking ceremony and enjoying an inspiring cultural performance. We also gathered at our sites to chat and eat delicious foods, particularly enjoying cookies from the Aboriginal owned business @justbecausecookiesau. These biscuits are lovingly created by Kim, a proud Aboriginal woman from the Whadjuk Nyoongar country in Western Australia. Kim specialises in custom decorated sugar cookies with royal icing, and each piece is a testament to her craftsmanship and passion. At wayss, we are committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive service to all people. We celebrate events like NAIDOC Week in the spirit of fostering understanding, respect, and unity. To further our commitment, we are working with our teams to inform and develop a new Cultural Safety Plan.
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During @naidocweek Week, the wayss team marked the week by attending events across the southeast...

Our dedicated team members work tirelessly with people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and family violence. This week, we spoke to one of our team who works with young people. In her work, she travels across all the Services for Young People sites to support practice development and witness the incredible efforts being made in the community. "There is no typical day for me. I work across all the Services for Young People sites, which allows me to support practice development and see all the wonderful work being done with our young people and in the community." Having faced numerous adversities as a young person herself, she understands the profound impact that access to supportive programs can have on an individual's life. Her lived experience is what led her to youth work, and she truly believes in pairing challenges with opportunities. "The most rewarding part of working with individuals facing challenging situations is the unwavering belief that they are capable of and deserving of a well, stable, and fulfilling life, even if they have never experienced it before." She advocates for the Advantaged Thinking framework in her work. wayss and Services for Young People have adopted Advantaged Thinking to better support young people facing housing instability by emphasising their strengths and potential. “Advantaged Thinking helps young people build sustainable livelihoods, focusing on employment, as well as education, and training opportunities.” Join us in celebrating the incredible work being done by our team members and the positive changes they are making in the lives of those in need.
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Our dedicated team members work tirelessly with people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and...

wayss respectfully acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First Australians and the Traditional Owners of the land. We continue to honour their enduring connection to culture and country. Aboriginal Australians are significantly overrepresented in Victoria's homelessness system. While they make up just 0.8% of the population, they account for 10.2% of those using homelessness services. This stark reality underscores the importance of targeted support and inclusive services. At wayss, we are committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive service to all people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. #NAIDOC2024 #BLAKLOUDPROUD
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wayss respectfully acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First Australians and the...

Family violence is a national emergency that demands immediate action. According to new statistics, police respond to one family violence incident every six minutes, with over 96,000 callouts in just 12 months. This data, released by the Crime Statistics Agency yesterday, highlights an urgent need for change. The report also reveals a rise in female victims of serious crimes, including homicide, assault, and sexual offenses. These figures are reflected in the immense pressure on our frontline workers, who are striving daily to keep our communities safe. We must come together to address this issue and support those affected.
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Family violence is a national emergency that demands immediate action. According to new statistics, police...

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Wayss️ 3 weeks ago

Australia's housing crisis is hitting hard. The Priced Out report from Everybody’s Home shows that skyrocketing rents are leaving people on Centrelink payments and even full-time minimum wage workers struggling to find a place to live. wayss joins the call for change - this is a crisis that demands urgent action.

Australia's housing crisis is hitting hard. The Priced Out report from Everybody’s Home shows that skyrocketing rents are leaving people on Centrelink payments and even full-time minimum wage workers struggling to find a place to live. wayss joins the call for change - this is a crisis that demands urgent action.
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http://Wayss
Wayss️ 1 month ago

Every year, National Child Protection Week promotes a safe and supported life for every child. This year’s theme, ‘Every Conversation Matters,’ resonates with us. At wayss, we see the daily impacts of homelessness and family violence on children. The 2024 Child Homelessness Snapshot revealed over 25,000 children were homeless in 2022-23, marking a 3.2% increase nationwide. Additionally, children remain at high risk of family, domestic, and sexual violence: about 1 in 8 adults witnessed violence towards a parent before the age of 15, with higher rates of violence against mothers. While there have been steps forward, more needs to be done. We join the sector in making every conversation count this National Child Protection Week.

Every year, National Child Protection Week promotes a safe and supported life for every child. This year’s theme, ‘Every Conversation Matters,’ resonates with us. At wayss, we see the daily impacts of homelessness and family violence on children. The 2024 Child Homelessness Snapshot revealed over 25,000 children were homeless in 2022-23, marking a 3.2% increase nationwide. Additionally, children remain at high risk of family, domestic, and sexual violence: about 1 in 8 adults witnessed violence towards a parent before the age of 15, with higher rates of violence against mothers. While there have been steps forward, more needs to be done. We join the sector in making every conversation count this National Child Protection Week.
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http://Wayss
Wayss️ 2 months ago

The Australian Homelessness Conference 2024, themed "Gathering Momentum," brought together around 800 delegates for two days of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions, and wayss’ Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Sonia and Steve were there. Hosted by the Government of South Australia and AHURI, the event featured influential voices from both national and international organisations having important conversations about homelessness. Shari McPhail facilitated the panel ‘Effective and Innovative Responses to Domestic and Family Violence related Homelessness.’ The conference highlighted the lived experience of homelessness, which, for these delegates, takes a unique kind of courage. The important insights that were shared can help us to identify shortcomings, improve systems and develop more equitable and effective programs. We’re looking forward to continuing the conversation with the sector as we move towards the changes that are needed.

The Australian Homelessness Conference 2024, themed "Gathering Momentum," brought together around 800 delegates for two days of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions, and wayss’ Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Sonia and Steve were there. Hosted by the Government of South Australia and AHURI, the event featured influential voices from both national and international organisations having important conversations about homelessness. Shari McPhail facilitated the panel ‘Effective and Innovative Responses to Domestic and Family Violence related Homelessness.’ The conference highlighted the lived experience of homelessness, which, for these delegates, takes a unique kind of courage. The important insights that were shared can help us to identify shortcomings, improve systems and develop more equitable and effective programs. We’re looking forward to continuing the conversation with the sector as we move towards the changes that are needed.
The Australian Homelessness Conference 2024, themed "Gathering Momentum," brought together around 800 delegates for two days of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions, and wayss’ Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Sonia and Steve were there. Hosted by the Government of South Australia and AHURI, the event featured influential voices from both national and international organisations having important conversations about homelessness. Shari McPhail facilitated the panel ‘Effective and Innovative Responses to Domestic and Family Violence related Homelessness.’ The conference highlighted the lived experience of homelessness, which, for these delegates, takes a unique kind of courage. The important insights that were shared can help us to identify shortcomings, improve systems and develop more equitable and effective programs. We’re looking forward to continuing the conversation with the sector as we move towards the changes that are needed. The Australian Homelessness Conference 2024, themed "Gathering Momentum," brought together around 800 delegates for two days of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions, and wayss’ Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Sonia and Steve were there. Hosted by the Government of South Australia and AHURI, the event featured influential voices from both national and international organisations having important conversations about homelessness. Shari McPhail facilitated the panel ‘Effective and Innovative Responses to Domestic and Family Violence related Homelessness.’ The conference highlighted the lived experience of homelessness, which, for these delegates, takes a unique kind of courage. The important insights that were shared can help us to identify shortcomings, improve systems and develop more equitable and effective programs. We’re looking forward to continuing the conversation with the sector as we move towards the changes that are needed. +1 The Australian Homelessness Conference 2024, themed "Gathering Momentum," brought together around 800 delegates for two days of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions, and wayss’ Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Sonia and Steve were there. Hosted by the Government of South Australia and AHURI, the event featured influential voices from both national and international organisations having important conversations about homelessness. Shari McPhail facilitated the panel ‘Effective and Innovative Responses to Domestic and Family Violence related Homelessness.’ The conference highlighted the lived experience of homelessness, which, for these delegates, takes a unique kind of courage. The important insights that were shared can help us to identify shortcomings, improve systems and develop more equitable and effective programs. We’re looking forward to continuing the conversation with the sector as we move towards the changes that are needed.
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http://Wayss
Wayss️ 2 months ago

Homelessness is a complex issue that affects people from all walks of life. At wayss, we support individuals like this young person every day. Join us in raising awareness and offering support this Homelessness Week.

Homelessness is a complex issue that affects people from all walks of life. At wayss, we support individuals like this young person every day. Join us in raising awareness and offering support this Homelessness Week.
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http://Wayss
Wayss️ 2 months ago

Our frontline workers at wayss face immense challenges every day, yet they continue to provide unwavering support to those in need. With three sites in the southeast region—home to some of the highest rates of homelessness in Victoria—their dedication is undeniable. This Homelessness Week, we’re taking a moment to thank them for their incredible work.

Our frontline workers at wayss face immense challenges every day, yet they continue to provide unwavering support to those in need. With three sites in the southeast region—home to some of the highest rates of homelessness in Victoria—their dedication is undeniable. This Homelessness Week, we’re taking a moment to thank them for their incredible work.
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2 Comments
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Wayss️ 2 months ago

Stories like these highlight the harsh realities many face – increasingly and scarily despite having steady employment. At wayss, we are committed to providing support and making sure these voices are not lost. This Homelessness Week, help share their stories.

Stories like these highlight the harsh realities many face – increasingly and scarily despite having steady employment. At wayss, we are committed to providing support and making sure these voices are not lost. This Homelessness Week, help share their stories.
http://Wayss
Wayss️ 2 months ago

In 2021–22, Victorian services assisted 102,000 people experiencing homelessness. The demand for services in Victoria is overwhelming, yet resources are scarce. This #HomelessnessWeek - and every week - we need to address this crisis with urgency and compassion.

In 2021–22, Victorian services assisted 102,000 people experiencing homelessness. The demand for services in Victoria is overwhelming, yet resources are scarce. This #HomelessnessWeek - and every week - we need to address this crisis with urgency and compassion.
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http://Wayss
Wayss️ 2 months ago

Yesterday the wayss team - CEO Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Steve, Melissa, Jaz, Jaison and Helen - attended an event ahead of Homelessness Week. In a powerful display, 6000 origami homes adorned the steps of the Parliament of Victoria These paper abodes represent just 10% of the 60,000 social houses needed to combat homelessness in Victoria. The wayss team proudly advocated for increased social housing, standing in support of this crucial cause. The event featured inspiring speeches and discussions on the necessary steps forward, highlighting the importance of addressing homelessness in Victoria. It was great to see members of the teams from Council to Homeless Persons, Hope Street Youth and Family Services, Melbourne City Mission - MCM, Kids Under Cover, Uniting Vic.Tas, and The Salvation Army Australia. Pictured are: Housing and Homelessness Minister Harriet Shing MP Florence, Lee Tarlamis MP, Rachel Payne MP Belinda Wilson MP and Ann-Marie Hermans MP

Yesterday the wayss team - CEO Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Steve, Melissa, Jaz, Jaison and Helen - attended an event ahead of Homelessness Week. In a powerful display, 6000 origami homes adorned the steps of the Parliament of Victoria These paper abodes represent just 10% of the 60,000 social houses needed to combat homelessness in Victoria. The wayss team proudly advocated for increased social housing, standing in support of this crucial cause. The event featured inspiring speeches and discussions on the necessary steps forward, highlighting the importance of addressing homelessness in Victoria. It was great to see members of the teams from Council to Homeless Persons, Hope Street Youth and Family Services, Melbourne City Mission - MCM, Kids Under Cover, Uniting Vic.Tas, and The Salvation Army Australia. Pictured are: Housing and Homelessness Minister Harriet Shing MP Florence, Lee Tarlamis MP, Rachel Payne MP Belinda Wilson MP and Ann-Marie Hermans MP
Yesterday the wayss team - CEO Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Steve, Melissa, Jaz, Jaison and Helen - attended an event ahead of Homelessness Week. In a powerful display, 6000 origami homes adorned the steps of the Parliament of Victoria These paper abodes represent just 10% of the 60,000 social houses needed to combat homelessness in Victoria. The wayss team proudly advocated for increased social housing, standing in support of this crucial cause. The event featured inspiring speeches and discussions on the necessary steps forward, highlighting the importance of addressing homelessness in Victoria. It was great to see members of the teams from Council to Homeless Persons, Hope Street Youth and Family Services, Melbourne City Mission - MCM, Kids Under Cover, Uniting Vic.Tas, and The Salvation Army Australia. Pictured are: Housing and Homelessness Minister Harriet Shing MP Florence, Lee Tarlamis MP, Rachel Payne MP Belinda Wilson MP and Ann-Marie Hermans MP Yesterday the wayss team - CEO Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Steve, Melissa, Jaz, Jaison and Helen - attended an event ahead of Homelessness Week. In a powerful display, 6000 origami homes adorned the steps of the Parliament of Victoria These paper abodes represent just 10% of the 60,000 social houses needed to combat homelessness in Victoria. The wayss team proudly advocated for increased social housing, standing in support of this crucial cause. The event featured inspiring speeches and discussions on the necessary steps forward, highlighting the importance of addressing homelessness in Victoria. It was great to see members of the teams from Council to Homeless Persons, Hope Street Youth and Family Services, Melbourne City Mission - MCM, Kids Under Cover, Uniting Vic.Tas, and The Salvation Army Australia. Pictured are: Housing and Homelessness Minister Harriet Shing MP Florence, Lee Tarlamis MP, Rachel Payne MP Belinda Wilson MP and Ann-Marie Hermans MP +8 Yesterday the wayss team - CEO Wayne Merritt, Shari McPhail, Steve, Melissa, Jaz, Jaison and Helen - attended an event ahead of Homelessness Week. In a powerful display, 6000 origami homes adorned the steps of the Parliament of Victoria These paper abodes represent just 10% of the 60,000 social houses needed to combat homelessness in Victoria. The wayss team proudly advocated for increased social housing, standing in support of this crucial cause. The event featured inspiring speeches and discussions on the necessary steps forward, highlighting the importance of addressing homelessness in Victoria. It was great to see members of the teams from Council to Homeless Persons, Hope Street Youth and Family Services, Melbourne City Mission - MCM, Kids Under Cover, Uniting Vic.Tas, and The Salvation Army Australia. Pictured are: Housing and Homelessness Minister Harriet Shing MP Florence, Lee Tarlamis MP, Rachel Payne MP Belinda Wilson MP and Ann-Marie Hermans MP
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3 Comments
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Wayss️ 3 months ago

Frontline family violence workers like Elizabeth do essential work that makes a huge impact in the lives of the people they help. We need more people like her, and we're happy that $1 million will be invested in the new Workforce Vacancies Demonstration Program. This initiative, announced by Minister Vicki Ward last week, aims to attract, recruit, and retain workers in the family violence and sexual assault sectors through innovative programs and local partnerships. Elizabeth attended the announcement and shared her story. We commend and thank her for her work.

Frontline family violence workers like Elizabeth do essential work that makes a huge impact in the lives of the people they help. We need more people like her, and we're happy that $1 million will be invested in the new Workforce Vacancies Demonstration Program. This initiative, announced by Minister Vicki Ward last week, aims to attract, recruit, and retain workers in the family violence and sexual assault sectors through innovative programs and local partnerships. Elizabeth attended the announcement and shared her story. We commend and thank her for her work.

Jenaya Story

A special thank you also to Jenaya for so courageously and generously sharing her story. A story tha...

Working at Wayss - What I do matters

Team members at Wayss were asked to finish the sentence, "What I do matters". Listen to what they s...

Working at Wayss

Hear from some of our staff at Wayss....

Lyn's Story - Homeless for the first time

Older women who experience homelessness are growing in number. Lyn's Story features in a four part s...

Bianca's Story - No place to call home

Meet Bianca who experienced homelessness as a young woman. Bianca's Story featured in a four part se...

Jasmine's Story - Young and homeless

Jasmine first became homeless at the age of 14.For many years she experienced couch surfing, sleepin...

Danielle's Story - Without a home

Meet Danielle a mum with six kids and no where to go. Wayss partnered with City of Casey to make a f...

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