Our purpose, vision and values

For over 40 years, Toora’s purpose has been to support, connect and advocate for Canberra women who are impacted by domestic violence, homelessness, institutions and substance dependency to create better life outcomes and community change.

Our work is motivated by a simple and powerful vision – women living with agency, dignity, safety and respect. These aren’t just words – they guide everything we do.

Our values in action

Unwavering Commitment

We foster trust by being accountable, responsive and reliable in all situations to ensure we can provide support in times of need.

Excellence and Integrity

We act with honesty, transparency and fairness and ensure our decision making is guided by integrity and strong ethics.

Adaptive Service

We provide flexibility, choice and agency to ensure our services adapt to individual needs.

Collective Strength

Together we are stronger and work collectively to provide connection to a comprehensive network of support.

Dignity and Respect

We value and celebrate diversity and the differences that each person brings to ensure all perspectives are considered and heard with respect.

Bold Advocates

We are driven by our purpose and act with boldness and determination to challenge systemic barriers to create a community where we live with dignity, safety and respect.

From vision to action

Living our vision means showing up every day with compassion, courage and commitment. It’s not just about providing services – it’s about walking alongside women through complex and often challenging moments in their lives. We create spaces where women feel safe, respected and heard. Our approach recognises that every woman’s journey is unique, and we work in partnership to support her goals, honour her choices and strengthen her self-determination.

From small acts of kindness to big-picture advocacy, our values shape every decision we make. Whether it’s supporting a woman to find safe housing, building connections in the community, or influencing systemic change, we aim to create lasting, positive impacts that extends beyond our services.

We believe that real change happens when women are given the tools, opportunities, and respect they deserve – because every woman has the right to live free from violence, inequality, and fear.