West Welcome Wagon is a grassroots, volunteer-powered not-for-profit organisation based in Melbourne’s western suburbs. Since 2013, we have been dedicated to welcoming and supporting asylum seekers and refugees as they rebuild their lives in Australia.
Our mission is simple: to provide practical, essential support to help new arrivals create safe, comfortable homes and feel a sense of belonging in our community. We collect and distribute high-quality donated items—such as furniture, whitegoods, bedding, clothing, and kitchenware—tailored to the unique needs of each household. Many of the people we assist arrive with few possessions and limited resources, so our support can make a world of difference.
Each year, we assist over 500 households from more than 30 countries, working across the Local Government Areas of Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Wyndham, Moonee Valley, and Melton. Our dedicated team of over 200 core volunteers, supported by a vibrant online community, is at the heart of everything we do—from collecting and sorting donations to delivering goods.
We are deeply committed to environmental sustainability, reusing and recycling donated goods wherever possible, and we work closely with local councils, schools, businesses, and partner organisations to maximise our impact.
From humble beginnings on a founder’s front porch, West Welcome Wagon has grown into a registered charity with warehouse facilities and a strong reputation for compassion, community, and inclusion. We are proud to help create a welcoming environment where asylum seekers and refugees can thrive.
Together, we’re building a more welcoming west—one household at a time.
Testimonials
“I really touched by what the Australian people like you and family doing for us. This is exemplary of the generosity of a great community like West Welcome Wagon. Thank you so much and May God bless you. Have a lovely coming Holy Days!”
“Twenty five years ago in Iran I was born. Iran is such a beautiful country with very rich culture and history. People care about education and well being. But everything changes when it comes to our government. I don’t want to give you a headache by telling you what our people has passed through in last 35 years. But each Iranian who left the country had political or religious reason. So here I am. An Asylum seeker for almost 18 months. Being that hasn’t been easy. I stayed in a detention center, being called by just a number. My family and I have passed so many hard days. We left our home and family behind and started from nothing here. Thank you all for your wagons, for all the little things that you do for people like me. You are all in my heart whenever I open my fridge or ride my bike. I can feel your support when I open my pantry and decide what to cook for dinner. You are all so inspirational and awesome. You make these days much easier for us. I want to make sure you know we see your kindness and support and please be sure that kindness doesn’t lost, it just comes back to you and your life. You are all simply beautiful and perfect. I hope you all enjoy your holidays and have an amazing 2015.”