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How we work: safe, holistic, women-centred

Women experiencing homelessness in the ACT need more than just a roof over their heads. Many face interconnected challenges – financial stress, relationship breakdowns, health concerns, domestic violence, substance dependency and poor mental health.

At Toora, we see the whole picture. We walk alongside women, non-binary, and other feminine-identifying people through these life-altering events, offering tools, support, and respect to help break cycles and create better futures.

What our approach means

We work holistically because life doesn’t happen in neat categories. Many of our clients who are experiencing homelessness are also navigating complex challenges like domestic violence, substance dependency, and mental health concerns. We see the intersections between these issues and design support that reflects real life – not just one problem at a time.

Our services are led by women, for women, ensuring safety, relevance and dignity at every step. We focus on whole-of-life support: housing, alcohol and other drug treatment, counselling, family and children’s support, and other tailored case interventions. You choose what’s important, and we work together – at your pace – to build stability, safety, and hope. Every decision we make is informed by evidence, lived experience, and our values of respect, inclusion, safety, integrity and self-determination.

How this helps in practice

From the moment you connect with us, we focus on creating safety and clarity. Our intake process is respectful and collaborative – you set the priorities, and we plan together. Support may include immediate safety planning, access to housing, alcohol & other drug treatment, counselling, domestic and family violence services, or family and children’s programs.

We coordinate with trusted partners so you don’t have to tell your story over and over. Cultural awareness and inclusion are central to our work, ensuring services are responsive to identity, language and community needs. Each plan is personalised, with clear steps and ongoing review to make sure support keeps pace with changing circumstances. By addressing the whole picture – housing, health, relationships, and beyond – we help you to strengthen your independence and create better life outcomes.