Our History
On 29th August 2025, Midland Women’s Health Care Place was renamed ERICA Women’s Centre, reflecting the core values that have guided us through decades of growth:
Empowerment. Respect. Inclusion. Courage. Authenticity.
This transformation brings together a powerful legacy of services and community connection under a renewed, unified name. ERICA Women’s Centre (ERICA) continues to provide holistic, inclusive support for women and families in Perth’s eastern region – carrying forward the work of two long-standing, trusted organisations.
A Merged Vision for Stronger Futures
On 1st July 2023, Nardine Wimmins Refuge and Midland Women’s Health Care Place (MWHCP) formally merged, uniting decades of experience and shared commitment to women’s safety and wellbeing. Together, we now offer a stronger, more integrated range of services including one-on-one counselling, trauma-informed refuge support, wellbeing programs and community partnerships.
Celebrating 30 Years of Women’s Health and Wellbeing
In August 2025, we proudly marked 30 years since the establishment of MWHCP – an organisation born from a simple but powerful dream: to create a safe, welcoming space in Midland where women could access support, information and care.
It all began in 1994, when funding was secured through the Eastern Region Community Development Council. In August 1995, the Centre was officially opened at its first home on Railway Parade, complete with a logo designed by local artist Jude Taylor. From emotional counselling and outreach from the Sexual Assault Resource Centre, to support groups on postnatal depression and domestic violence, the Centre quickly became a cornerstone of the community.
Driven by demand and vision, the Centre moved in 1997 to Morrison Road, then in 2006 to a purpose-built home at 24 Junction Parade (formerly The Avenue). Designed by RAD Architecture and supported by Lotterywest, our home – The Val Ferguson Centre – was opened following a traditional smoking ceremony and a sod-turning by the late Mayor Charlie Gregorini and Chairperson Val Ferguson.
A Sanctuary for Women and Children – 50 Years On
ERICA also proudly incorporates one of Western Australia’s longest-running refuges for women and children. In November 2024, the refuge marked its 50th anniversary – five decades of providing crisis accommodation, safety, dignity, and empowerment for women and children escaping family and domestic violence. This refuge remains a safe-haven grounded in self-determination, child-inclusive practice, and healing. Our team provides wraparound, trauma-informed support that empowers women and their children to begin rebuilding their lives.
The Journey Continues
While our name has changed, our mission has not. At ERICA, we remain deeply committed to providing accessible, professional, and inclusive services for women aged 16 and over – supporting health, healing, and hope.
As we step into this new chapter, we thank our partners, funders, community and staff for their continued trust and belief in our work.
ERICA Women's Centre 