1+
20,000+
Partnerships expanded with local businesses
WCS is powered by more than 400 staff members who make a difference every day
Over 80% of our staff work directly with the community across all of our programs, including Children’s Services, Canteens 4 Kids, Mental Health outreach, Child, Youth and Family teams and Community Programs.
Alongside them are corporate services who keep everything running smoothly through finance, HR, facilities, payroll, learning and development, and other vital support services.
20%
of staff would recommend WCS as a great place to work
20%
of staff believe in the overall purpose and values of WCS
5+
countries of birth across our workforce
20%
of staff believe WCS is ethical
Staff engagement
In July 2024, our staff engagement survey provided valuable insight into what we do well and where we can improve. Staff told us that their strongest sense of connection lies in their belief in our vision, purpose, and values, as well as in the positivity they find in the work itself.
The survey identified some areas of action that would have a high impact. A staff survey focus group was formed, with employees volunteering to participate. These groups created action items to enable some action in areas of high impact such as recognition, performance feedback, and technology.
New Enterprise Agreement
A major highlight this year was the approval of our new Enterprise Agreement (EA) in October 2024.
These changes recognise that flexibility is not just about balancing work and home life, but also about fostering long-term health and resilience.
1%
Above award wage for Children's Services staff
0%
Above award wage for all other staff under SCHADS
Greater access to flexible working arrangements
Additional 5 days of personal leave, cultural leave, study leave & a new Wellbeing Day
Investing in growth
In January 2025, we launched ELMO, our new human resources system.
ELMO brings together payroll, learning, and development in one central platform, making it easier to manage employee information and track progress while providing staff with a simple “one-stop shop” experience.
In addition to maintaining compliance, WCS staff are provided with many professional development opportunities throughout the year. We partnered with training partners, including Meridian, Recovre and HESTA, to deliver targeted training programs that enhance staff capability and professional expertise across our teams.
Our internal Learning and Development team continues to deliver in-house CPR and First Aid training, led by Team Leader Twisty, a certified first aid trainer and SES volunteer. Introduced last year, this approach has proven highly effective, providing cost savings and training that is tailored to our services in a relaxed and engaging environment.
93+
staff members trained in CPR and First Aid
200+
training modules completed monthly
1+
trainees supported
Despite financial challenges, WCS remains a resilient organisation committed to delivering essential services to the community.
For the financial year ended 30 June 2025, WCS recorded a deficit of $933,980.
Like many community organisations, WCS faced a challenging economic environment marked by rising costs, inflationary pressures, and changes in consumer behaviour. In response, WCS made the difficult decision to exit the NDIS, concluding its Support Coordination and Allied Health services.
At the same time, WCS continued to invest in its future by expanding its Social Enterprise, including acquiring Canteen 4 Kids, an ACT school canteen services operation.
Funding Partners
Supporters
Woden Community Service recognises the Ngunnawal people as the traditional custodians of the ACT and surrounding region and acknowledges that other people and families also have a traditional connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We pay our respects to their cultures, ancestors and Elders past and present.
