About SCoA
The Somali Community of Australia Incorporated (SCoA) is a community-driven, non-profit organisation committed to improving the wellbeing, social inclusion and economic participation of Somali Australians and other culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Established to address the unique needs and aspirations of the Somali community, SCoA delivers culturally responsive programs, community services, advocacy initiatives and capacity-building opportunities that strengthen individuals, families and communities.
Our organisation serves as a bridge between communities, government, service providers and stakeholders — ensuring community voices are heard and represented in decision-making.
A thriving, empowered and inclusive Australian society where Somali Australians and culturally diverse communities achieve their full potential and actively contribute to social, economic and civic life.
To empower Somali Australians and diverse communities through culturally appropriate services, advocacy, education, employment pathways, leadership development and community engagement that foster wellbeing, inclusion, resilience and long-term success.
What we stand for
Community First
We place the needs and aspirations of our community at the centre of everything we do.
Respect
We value diversity, dignity, cultural identity and mutual understanding.
Inclusion
We promote equal opportunities and participation for all individuals regardless of age, gender, faith, ability or background.
Integrity
We operate with honesty, transparency, accountability and professionalism.
Empowerment
We support individuals and communities to build confidence, leadership, independence and self-determination.
Collaboration
Strong partnerships create stronger communities and sustainable outcomes.
Excellence
We strive for high-quality services, innovation and continuous improvement.
The Somali community in Victoria
The Somali community in Victoria is a relatively new one. Almost half of the current Somali-born population migrated to Victoria between 1991 and 2010. This period marked the beginning of the Somali community in Victoria.
The majority of the population arrived in Victoria as refugees following the outbreak of civil war in Somalia in 1991. From 1991 to 2000, there were 1,686 Somali-born people who settled in Victoria.
Many Somali-born people arrived as refugees from other surrounding countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia and Egypt. Some Somali refugees were born in refugee camps in these countries. This means that the number of Somalis in Victoria may be underestimated, as statistics often only consider people born in Somalia.
More recently, Somali-born people have migrated to Victoria to reunite with family or to pursue educational and economic opportunities.
Somali community today
The Somali community in Victoria is one of the largest in Australia. There are 10,019 people in Victoria who have Somali ancestry, of which 4,291 were born in Somalia. Most of the community is young, with the largest cohorts aged 0–14 (34.5%) and 15–24 (24.2%).
People of Somali ancestry in Victoria
Born in Somalia
Male
Female
Aged 0–14
Aged 15–24
Settled in Victoria 1991–2000
Peak period of migration
A national peak community organisation representing and supporting Somali Australians.
We deliver advocacy, community development, service delivery, research, partnerships and leadership initiatives. Our approach is community-led, culturally responsive and focused on meaningful outcomes for the people we serve.