A History of Impact & Progress

The first Greek settlers in WA, arriving before 1900, faced hardship, isolation, and a foreign culture. Without an organisation to support them, the Greek Orthodox Church became their spiritual and cultural anchor. In 1923, the Hellenic Community of Western Australia (HCWA) was formed, dedicated to preserving Greek language, traditions, and faith. The goal: to build a Greek Orthodox church in Perth.

In 1924, land was secured in Northbridge for a church, but financial challenges led to the construction of the Hellenic Hall first. By the 1930s, with economic stability restored, fundraising efforts resumed. On 18 April 1937, Saints Constantine & Helene Church was consecrated, becoming the spiritual home for Perth’s Greek community. By 1972, it was officially declared a Cathedral.

As migration increased post-WWII, HCWA expanded beyond the church. Sporting clubs, youth groups, and cultural organisations flourished. In the late 20th century, HCWA invested in education and aged care, founding St. Andrew’s Grammar and Hellenic Community Aged Care in Dianella. These institutions continue HCWA’s near 100-year mission of preserving Hellenism in WA.