HISTORY

1979	The founding committee of Indigo Junction (then known as Swan Emergency Accommodation (SEA)) is formed. SEA acquired its first house for families, youth and single adults in crisis. The house was named ‘The Junction’. The Junction became the subject of an intensive community campaign in the form of working bees, furniture and monetary donations to prepare for the opening. All sections of the community were approached and gave generously.
1980	The Junction opened its doors to provide emergency accommodation for crisis. From 1980 until 1982 the shelter operated with a live-in caretaker, volunteers from the committee and assistance from community organisations. This venture remains unique due to the fact that it was initiated, funded and operated by the whole community and in fact, made history by being the first in Western Australia to house single males and females under the one roof. Across the first 18 months of operation housing was provided for families and single people. At the end of this period the numbers highlighted that 60% of all the people housed were young people.
1983	By this time it had become clear that the organisation needed to increase the amount of properties it had to meet the need for services. It was decided that the organisation would spilt into a Youth Service and a Family Service named ‘Transea’.
1986	The Youth Service changed from its original name – The Junction – to be called ‘Snow Bennett Youth Shelter’ in honour of Harold ‘Snow’ Bennett whose unceasing volunteer work for the community had contributed much to the success of the organisation. At the new service, a meal, bathroom facilities and a bed cost $1.00 per night.
1989	SEA was described as both a family and a youth accommodation service with four properties across Midland.
1992	Koolkuna Women’s Refuge opened its doors to provide crisis accommodation and support services to individuals affected by and living with family and domestic violence in Perth.
1997	Our current Family Service is officially opened in Midland on 22 May by the Hon Dr Kim Hames MLA. The service offers five units with 2-3 bedrooms specifically for young families with parents aged under 25. The housing is supported by Family Support Workers who provide education, support and referral to specialist and community services.
1998	Karnany Aboriginal Centre becomes part of the SEA family. This centre provides culturally appropriate service and access to resources for the Aboriginal community and others. Karnany offers a local Emergency Relief program.
1999	The Snow Bennett Youth Service and the Administration Office moves to be at the current location on Great Northern Highway in Midland. The Youth Service houses 6 people who require crisis accommodation. We are also able to provide accommodation for more than 10 young people in our community-based housing.
2016	Swan Emergency Accommodation changed their name to Indigo Junction and re-branded.
2022	Indigo Junction and Koolkuna merge, expanding their knowledge, client base, support network, and service delivery avenues for the benefit of the community.

Present Day

The efforts of former and current board members and staff have seen Indigo Junction evolve into a highly respected and professional community organisation. Through support from the Housing Authority, and the Department of Child Protection and Family Services, Indigo Junction now has over 25 houses in the community and provides individualised support to our tenants as well as individuals and families in care.

Our team has grown and all of our staff are passionate about helping people and delivering an accepting, innovative service. They are well-informed and trained in Trauma Informed Practice which drives our client-centred approach.

While housing is our core business, we have expanded our services to address the causes of homelessness and education and support around family and domestic violence.

We now have a suite of services ranging from emergency relief, financial counselling through to our strong fathers program. We are active participants in advocacy and debate around issues contributing to homelessness, poverty, exclusion and disadvantage in Western Australia.