Welcome to SMYL
At SMYL, we focus on helping parents and carers build strong, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Our dedicated team is here to support you with a personalised approach that values your unique strengths and needs.
Our Mission Statement
To advocate on behalf of the community, focusing on people in need, and to develop and deliver socially just programs and services.
Our Vision
To improve the overall welfare of the community by providing appropriate social services, education, employment and training.
Key Challenges
SMYL Community Services believes everyone has the right to participate fully in the social and economic life of their communities. Equality of opportunity is the first step towards each person having life-long outcomes of personal growth and achievement.
Over 35 Years of Service
SMYL began its journey in 1983, providing social support and employment related services to young people across the local government areas of Fremantle, Melville, Cockburn, and East Fremantle.
In 1989–1990, we expanded our impact by delivering Youth Action Scheme services, further strengthening our commitment to supporting youth development.
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In 1990, Sam Gowegati was appointed Manager, a role he continues to hold today as Director of SMYL. Under his leadership, SMYL has grown significantly in both scope and impact.
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We became an incorporated not-for-profit organisation in 1993, adopting our own constitution and establishing a formal management committee.
Two years later, in 1995, SMYL achieved Public Benevolent Institution (PBI) status. Today, we remain one of the largest PBIs within the Western Australian community services sector.
SMYL Growth and Reach
SMYL proudly delivers services across a wide range of Western Australian regions, including:
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South West
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Goldfields
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Wheatbelt
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Mid West/Gascoyne
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Peel
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Perth South Metropolitan
Over the years, SMYL has expanded its impact beyond our core regions.
We have delivered innovative services to regional communities in the Kimberley and Pilbara, and even extended our support internationally to the developing nation of Timor-Leste.
From humble beginnings with just three staff members in 1990, SMYL has grown to a dedicated team of approximately 180 employees.
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We remain committed to providing education, employment, and training opportunities, as well as vital information and support to thousands of at risk and marginalised Western Australians.
