YWCA's history dates back to London in 1855. At this time, women could not vote, serve on juries, stand in parliament and married women could not own or dispose of property in their own right. Women were paid less than men for the same work and many positions in the workforce were closed to women.

During the Industrial revolution many young woman came into towns, in search of work and the YWCA provided safe accommodation and job placement for many women.

The YWCA has continually adapted its programs and services to meet the needs of young women and has campaigned fearlessly on issues that affect women.

Early Days

Mary Jane Kinnard set up a hostel for Florence Nightingale’s nurses, who were on their way to and from the Crimea. In 1857, the hostel was opened up to working girls.

Emma Robarts of South England started a Saturday night prayer group. The two women joined their groups together to form the Young Women's Christian Association.

Inspired by these women, the YWCA Victoria was formed in 1882 by a group of 15 women. They were led by a common purpose ‘to give help to women by women’. From its inception, YWCA Victoria has been committed to improving the opportunities and life skills of women.

In 1885, the YWCA visited factories where women worked and campaigned against sweatshop conditions. Women were provided with information about employment rights, health and the YWCA held lunchtime workplace meetings for women.

In 1887, the YWCA opened its first hostel.

In 1900, the YWCA provided tea and supper to young women in opium dens in Little Bourke street. Emergency accommodation was also provided.

In 1901, the YWCA opened its first employment agency, finding work for 600 Victorian women.

In 1910, the Traveller's Aid Society was formed to ensure the safety of immigrant women.

In 1914, the YWCA opened its first cafeteria

In the 1920's, the YWCA provided meals to local workrooms and sex education to young women.

In 1928, the YWCA opened its first health and recreational centre for women and girls.

During World War II

World War II brought many demands on YWCA Victoria. The Director of the WAAAF appealed to the YWCA to find suitable accommodation for WAAAF personnel, many of whom were from interstate and engaged in shift work at the Victoria Barracks. 11 Lansell Rd, provided the ideal accommodation. The YWCA also operated hostels for munitions workers in the Footscray district. Three properties were leased and administered by the YWCA.

1942-43 The YWCA found 6,700 service women temporary accommodation in Melbourne mansions that had been converted to hostels.

1943, Grenfell House in Alma Rd was leased as a residential club for students and business girls who lived outside of Melbourne.

By 1945, the YWCA was housing 1000 young women in 11 residential clubs and leave hostels and thousands more in temporary accommodation.

During the war years the YWCA also operated hostess training courses for 1,600 women, ran classes for engaged and married women, subsidized housekeeping services and formed 'A Garden Army' of 700 volunteers who grew hundreds of tonnes of vegetables for the fighting forces.

After the War

The YWCA's focus shifts after the war: accommodating and finding work for migrants, continuing the work of the Traveller's Aid Society, running leadership training for young girls, holiday camps and fitness clubs and recreational activities for young women. The YWCA activities expanded to meet the needs of young wives isolated in suburban homes with a diverse range of social activities and programs.

70's, 80's and 90's

In 1970, after school care is established for children in Collingwood.

In 1973, the YWCA runs a life skills program for women in Fairlea prison and opens Richmond House, affordable accommodation for women.

In 1975, the Y Family Hotel was opened to provide budget accommodation.

In 1985, YWCA runs the statewide childcare placement. Over the years, 7000 childcare placements have been made.

In 1995, the Cato Conference Centre was opened.

In 1997, the YWCA campaigned against sweatshops in the 'Fairwear' campaign.

In 1998, Asista Mentoring Program was created.

In 1999, JPET Employment and Training Program provided women with job training and support, including women at Parkville Youth Residential Care.

In 1999, Richmond House provides 49, 170 low cost room nights per year.

In 1999, YWCA provides Children's Services to East Timorese and Kosovar refugees at Packapunyal and Portsea safe havens.

Recent History

In 2000, Girlstorey taff provided support for women in Deer Park Correctional Centre.

In 2001 YWCA Victoria campaigned for the State and Federal Governments to implement realistic and progressive illicit drug policies.

In 2001 YWCA Victoria women Walked for Reconciliation.

In 2001-4 YWCA Victoria has actively campaigned for the fair treatment of asylum seekers and refugees.

In 2001-4 YWCA Victoria has campaigned for Paid Maternity Leave for Victorian women.

In 2002 YWCA Victoria, with Women’s Electoral Lobby and Victorian Council of Social Services, presented a State Election Forum for women, on the theme of women’s employment.

In 2003 and 2004 YWCA Victoria has been a strident advocate for young women, speaking out on issues such as women in politics, racism and women’s leadership.

In 2005 YWCA Victoria launched 'Week Withour Violence', a world-wide initiative designed to highlight and combat violence against women.  This campaign raised awareness of intimate partner violence and inspired women and men to combat this problem.  YWCA Victoria also spoke out about late term abortions and the right of women to chose.

In 2006 YWCA Victoria raised awareness of intimate partner violence by exhibiting 77 pairs of shoes donated by high profile Australians, accompanied by personal messages standing up against domestic violence.  Each year, on average, 77 Australians die as a result of domestic violence, the majority of whom are women.

In 2007 YWCA Victoria campaigned as part of International No Diet Day.  The 'Eat Cake' campaign aimed to dispel diet myths and provide an opportunity to celebrate all shapes and sizes.

In 2007 YWCA Victoria also ran 'Changin' It, Lovin' It', a two day conference for young women about life, career and community.