Our Conferences

What are Conferences?

Our Conferences (which consists of Conference Members) are a diverse group of people who carry out the ‘good works’ of the Society in the ACT and surrounding region. They are the backbone of the Society, helping companions (the people we support) in a number of ways, giving them a ‘hand up’ to make life-changing decisions. Conference Members also determine the strategic direction of the Society and how best to provide our programs and services to people in need.

What do they do?

For over 180 years, Home Visitation and Emergency Relief has remained the core work of the Society. Inspired by the Society’s founders in 1833, our Conference Members continue to visit people in their homes or within Vinnies Centres (shops) to provide support, friendship and material assistance.

The conference responds on a person-to-person basis always with two members working alongside and accompanying those seeking assistance. This help is directly related to the specific needs of the individual, and can include, among other things, assistance with food, utility bills, clothing, education support, or connection to services.

Conference work is not limited to home visitation – members will meet regularly, usually weekly but at least fortnightly to pray in fellowship as they respond to calls for help from those in their local area. Members also involve themselves in community work as well as other works of the Society.

Where do they operate?

With 48 Conferences made up of approximately over 530 members, we cover the following areas (see map below):

Interested in becoming a Conference Member?

Contact our team at (02) 6282 2722 or email conferences.cg@vinnies.org.au