About Us
Learn more about the St Vincent de Paul Society QLD.
Who We Are
The St Vincent de Paul Society is a global membership-based organisation of lay Catholics who seek personal and spiritual growth through serving those in need.
How The St Vincent de Paul Society Began in Australia
From small beginnings in France in the early 1800s, the St Vincent de Paul Society of Australia was founded in 1854. Commonly known in Australia as 'Vinnies', today we have over 45,000 members and volunteers across the country who selflessly give their time, care and compassion to assist people who are most vulnerable in our community.
Our membership is primarily Catholic and our work is based on Catholic Social Teachings. We assist anyone who seeks our support, without any judgement or prejudice. We do not discriminate against a person for any cultural, religious, political, gender or gender identity beliefs.
How St Vincent de Paul Society Began in Queensland
The first Queensland conference was created in 1894 in Red Hill in Brisbane’s north. The Red Hill Conference was formed to help people and families impacted by the 1893 Brisbane floods. This event marked the first of many instances of providing disaster relief. There have been countless times since where our members, staff, and volunteers have been there to assist those in need in the aftermath of natural disaster.
Our History
Our Structure
Mission, Vision & Values
Strategic Plan
FAQ's
Reports & Policies
What We Stand For
We work to combat social injustice by advocating for people who are marginalised or disadvantaged, or at risk of experiencing disadvantage. Our advocacy work goes to the heart of what the St Vincent de Paul Society stands for and why we exist today.
We are devoted to the prevention of poverty and homelessness, and work to support those experiencing disadvantage to regain sustainable independence by providing them with a hand up, not just a hand out.
Our Vincentians (members belonging to community-based Conferences), volunteers, and staff all work together to assist those in need with a variety of support services, often uniquely tailored to the person or family unit.
Below you will find information on the St Vincent de Paul Society History, our structure, mission, vision and values, and details of our Strategic Plan.
What Support Does St Vincent De Paul Society Offer?
Our support covers various areas including Housing & Homelessness, Food & Essentials support, Community Support, Aged Care Services, Financial Wellbeing, and Youth.
But the support our members give to local communities extends far beyond what could ever be quantified. The value of a hot meal, a heartfelt listening ear, warm embrace, community connection or sense of belonging is indeed, immeasurable.
Regardless of your situation, we will work to help you whether that be through direct services, support, or information.
About Ozcare and Vinnies Housing
We also operate two subsidiaries, Ozcare and Vinnies Housing.
In the spirit of the St Vincent de Paul Society, our wholly owned subsidiary Ozcare supports Queenslanders to live their best lives through the provision of compassionate, professional, and personalised aged care, community, and health services.
Vinnies Housing is our second wholly owned subsidiary, whose mission is to relieve poverty, distress, and disadvantage through access to housing. This is achieved through a renewed and strengthened focus on the provision of subsidised housing options, affordable housing, and support services to people experiencing housing stress, who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness.
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