History

Pormpur Paanthu means ‘women’s house’. It was established between 1991 and 1992. At the time the CEO of the Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council had insight into the local issues and dedicated funding from the canteen to establish and build capacity of women who were struggling in the face of over-crowded housing, welfare dependency, and experiencing high levels of domestic violence that were having a negative impact on children and families. A women’s group was established and the Council gave the women and Elders a house to establish a Women’s Shelter. As it grew it was funded for Vacation and After School Care, and the Child Care Centre. It expanded to include men’s support services through the Healing Centre, and the Alcohol and Drug Service Area.