Half a Century of Hope & Community: Anglicare WA Celebrates 50 Years
The Revd Chris Thomason, Chaplain
During 2026, Anglicare WA has celebrated a significant milestone, marking 50 years of walking with individuals, families, and communities across Western Australia. The anniversary was recognised in September through a series of events that brought together staff, volunteers, leaders, and supporters from across the state under the theme Thrive Together.
The celebrations began with a gathering of service leaders from across Western Australia, providing an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s achievements, explore future opportunities, and strengthen connections between services working in diverse local communities. The day featured discussions on community needs, innovation, partnerships, and the changing landscape of social services. The event concluded with recognition of outstanding leadership and service across the organisation.
The anniversary celebrations continued over two days as staff from across the state came together for the Anglicare WA 50 Years Staff Conference. The conference opened with cultural and historical reflections, acknowledging both the Traditional Custodians of the land and the organisation’s half-century journey of service and advocacy.
A video was played that captured reflections from our 50-year history. You can watch the video by accessing the link here.
A highlight of the conference was a keynote presentation focused on imagination, leadership, and creating positive social change. Participants also reflected on
Anglicare WA’s history through a panel discussion featuring people who have contributed to the organisation’s growth and impact over the decades.
Throughout the conference, attendees participated in a range of learning and development sessions exploring topics such as community wellbeing, innovation, emerging technologies, cultural responsiveness, and the future of social services. Cultural workshops and guided experiences provided opportunities for deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples perspectives and connection to place.
The event also emphasised wellbeing and connection, creating space for reflection and relationship-building among staff who often work across vast geographical distances. Attendees considered the in-person connection as one of the most important aspects of the conference.
With the majority of staff being together in one place it provided an opportunity to recognise individuals who embody Anglicare WA’s values and commitment to community.
As the celebrations concluded, one theme stood out above all others: gratitude. Gratitude for the thousands of people who have contributed to Anglicare WA’s work over the past 50 years, gratitude for the communities that have partnered in that work, gratitude for the opportunity to come together in person and gratitude to the team who worked tirelessly to organise and run the event.
The anniversary celebrations were more than a reflection on the past. They were a reminder that lasting social change is achieved through collaboration, compassion, and a shared commitment to helping people thrive. Fifty years on, Anglicare WA continues to build on that foundation, working alongside Western Australians to create stronger, more connected communities for the future.
