NCOSS was founded in 1935 during the Great Depression. Unemployment was at 28% and extreme poverty was rampant. Help mainly came from a few religious charities that were overstretched and under resourced.

A small group of women, who wanted to improve the lives of those suffering disadvantage, set up the NSW Council of Social Service.

The goal? To coordinate relief efforts and make life better for those who were suffering the most.

We work with government, civil society, schools, community members, think tanks, the public and private sector in NSW to achieve our vision of eliminating poverty and disadvantage in our state. Our social service member organisations represent women’s safety, disability support, social housing and homelessness, children’s and youth’s services, aged care, family and domestic violence, First Nations, and legal and migrant services.

We have more than 350 members and continue to grow.

Our vision: A NSW where poverty is eliminated and diversity is celebrated

We have the courage to advocate and act for those who are voiceless and those who support them

We act, speak and support with integrity and honesty as an independent public voice for the disadvantaged

We strive for a state free from poverty, where everyone can prosper no matter their background

We believe that a more equitable society starts with a more inclusive society where people’s differences are valued and their needs recognised

At NCOSS, we’re working towards a fairer future for all. One where everyone has a chance to thrive.

By partnering with the people experiencing tough times and the organisations that support them, we create real, lasting change where it’s needed most.

Almost a million NSW residents live below the poverty line and this number is growing.

We see a future where no one lives in poverty, where every person is valued for who they are and can live with dignity, security and opportunity. We believe strong community services can help build a fairer, kinder NSW for everyone.

Through advocacy, collaboration, and leadership, we are building the social infrastructure to create a more equitable NSW where all individuals and communities have the opportunity to thrive.

At NCOSS, we:

  • Highlight what life is like for people in poverty through reports and publications.
    Support the NSW social and community services sector to collaborate and innovate through our sector resources and events.
  • Connect with NSW state government and key organisations to make a difference and advocate for policy reform through budget submissions and key research reports.
  • Make sure we have a strong, effective and sustainable social service organisation through training and advocacy.
  • Collaborate across the sector to share knowledge, lift each other up and speak with a stronger voice. We’re more powerful when we work together.

At NCOSS, we’re working towards a fairer future for all. One where everyone has a chance to thrive. So join us to unify and strengthen our collective efforts to amplify and advocate for those whose voices after often not heard.