About Us

The Vanuatu Women’s Centre (VWC) is an independent women’s rights and civil society organisation based in Port Vila. Established in 1992, VWC’s mission is to eliminate violence against women and children throughout Vanuatu. This long-term vision is supported through a combination of prevention and response strategies that are culturally grounded, inclusive, and community-led.

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The VWC National Network

VWC operates a national network of services and outreach through:

• Main Centre: Located in Port Vila, the central hub for leadership, training, and national coordination.
• 5 Provincial Branches:
  • Sanma Counselling Centre (1995)
  • Tafea Counselling Centre (2001)
  • Torba Counselling Centre (2011)
  • Malampa Counselling Centre (2015)
  • Penama Counselling Centre (2017)
• 39 Committees Against Violence Against Women (CAVAWs): Volunteer-based rural networks that deliver awareness, prevention, and local support services.
• National Male Advocacy Program: Trained male advocates who promote women’s human rights and are held accountable to the women’s movement across their communities and organisations.

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Staff Capacity

VWC employs over 50 dedicated and trained staff members across Vanuatu:

• Port Vila (Head Office): 26 staff
• Sanma Counselling Centre: 7 staff
• Malampa Counselling Centre: 6 staff
• Penama Counselling Centre: 6 staff
• Tafea Counselling Centre: 4 staff
• Torba Counselling Centre: 4 staff

All staff are trained to provide counselling and make appropriate referrals to support survivors of violence with dignity and care.

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Our Partners

VWC’s work is supported by a strong network of regional and international partners who believe in gender equality and justice. Our partners include:

• UN Women through the Pacific Partnership to End Violence Against Women and Girls
• European Union
• Governments of Australia and New Zealand
• Oxfam, British High Commission, Austrian Government
• World Bank, ChildFund Australia, and other civil society groups

The Australian Government has been VWC’s core donor since 1994. UN Women funded the establishment of the Penama branch in 2017. The New Zealand Government has supported Sanma and safehouse services, while other partners have funded specific programs, trainings, and resources over the years.