Since 1956, WACOSS has been developing and strengthening the non-government community services sector's capacity to assist all Western Australians. WACOSS and its members aim to improve the quality of life of people disadvantaged by the inequities of our society through: •Improving community services by exchanging ideas, information, skills and resources •Creating a strong, united and informed voice capable of advocating for the social needs of all Western Australians A continual consultation process with members, their clients, the general public and other professional organisations enables WACOSS to identify and address social inequities within the community. WACOSS also provides government with feedback on policies and programs to ensure they are relevant, and offers an alternative avenue through which government can discuss sector issues with service providers and consumers. It further advocates the views of the sector by providing information and comment to the media and the public through media releases, regular newsletters and by making representatives available to speak at public forums. WACOSS is part of an extensive network comprising Councils of Social Services in all Australian States and Territories and a national body (ACOSS), based in Sydney.