Our History, Vision & Principles
Our History
The origins of International Social Service in Australia go back more than half a century, when an Australian branch of the international ISS network was first established.
ISS was founded in Geneva in 1924, in response to the migration of displaced persons after World War I and the need to assist families separated across international borders. To coordinate support for these vulnerable people, ISS established an international social work network, which today spans over 140 countries and continues to assist children and families with a wide range of inter-country social work services.
ISS has had a presence in Australia since the late 1930s. It was established as International Social Service – Australian Branch in 1955, and formally incorporated in 1961.
Today ISS Australia has offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. In 2011, ISS Australia celebrates the 50th anniversary of its founding in this country.
Our Vision
ISS Australia works to protect, defend and support children, families and individuals in disadvantaged situations as a consequence of global movement, particularly where these circumstances have lead to the separation of families and children. ISS Australia works to ensure that respect for human rights is accorded to every individual.
Our Principles
ISS promotes and protects the rights of families, children and other vulnerable persons according to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and other international human rights standards. The best interests of the child are paramount in all our work. As ISS celebrates diversity, it continually strives to practice in a culturally appropriate manner. The principles of neutrality, confidentiality, independence and impartiality are at the heart of the organisation’s work. ISS’s shared commitment to families, children and individuals unites its global network.