31/08/2026
The work of Soroptimist International stretches across the world — but its purpose remains beautifully simple: making a difference in the lives of women and girls.
A recent post shared by Sashi Kiran MP reminded us of what can happen when Soroptimists collaborate across countries and communities.
In Fiji, Soroptimists from across the South East Asia Pacific region contributed $200,000 towards the construction of a safe shelter. Three women — Veena Sharma, Dr Maria Dutton and Suman Lal — gave their time, energy and determination to see the project through. It became the first safe shelter for women and girls in Fiji.
That is the power of volunteering.
It is also a reminder that the challenges facing women do not stop at our own boundaries. Here in Australia, homelessness and housing insecurity are increasingly important issues for older women.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that in 2024–25, more than 31,700 people aged 55 and over accessed specialist homelessness services — an increase from 29,500 the previous year. More than half were women. Around 12,200 older clients were already experiencing homelessness when they sought support. (AIHW)
And the story is not always visible.
Homelessness can mean sleeping rough — but it can also mean moving between friends and family, living in unsuitable accommodation, facing eviction or being unable to afford a safe and secure home.
The 2021 Census estimated that 19,378 Australians aged 55 and over were experiencing homelessness, with older women more likely than older men to be staying temporarily with other households or living in severely overcrowded housing. (Australian Bureau of Statistics)
For women who have spent a lifetime caring for others, contributing to families, workplaces and communities, the prospect of housing insecurity later in life is particularly confronting.
This is why our work matters.
Soroptimist International is not a political organisation and it is not a religious organisation. We are women working together — through friendship, advocacy, volunteering, fundraising, education and practical action — to improve the lives of women and girls. Work begins globally, nationally and right here in Mackay.
We may not build a safe shelter in Fiji, but we can ask:
What can we do here?
Who needs a voice?
Who needs support?
And what can we achieve when we work together?
Because sometimes change begins with one woman saying,
“Something needs to be done.”
And another woman answering,
“I’ll help.”
Soroptimist International Australia Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific Soroptimist International Global
