Our Story, Our Mission

Stewart House is a unique haven located next to Curl Curl Beach, dedicated to transforming the lives of public school children in need from NSW and the ACT. Each year, 1,600 children experience our holistic care model, designed to provide health, education, and emotional support.

During their 12-day stay, children receive optometric, dental, and medical treatment, alongside emotional support. This is balanced with health and educational programs and out-of-school activities that boost self-esteem and promote a healthier lifestyle. Children attend a specific purpose school on-site for up to 10 days, with infrastructure and staffing supported by the NSW Department of Education. All other costs – including meals, accommodation, transport, entertainment, and staff salaries – are met through charitable donations, amounting to approximately $5 million annually.

Traditionally, NSW public education system teachers and staff contribute around $2 million through fortnightly salary deductions, while school-based fundraising adds about $500,000. The remaining funds come from personal and corporate donations and private grants.

Our Core Commitment:

  • Providing a safe environment where every person is treated with respect and is protected from harm.
  • Creating and maintaining a safe learning environment and safeguarding the emotional, psychological and physical wellbeing of children in its care

We recognise our moral and legal duty to protect children from foreseeable harm, including safeguards against mistreatment and timely reporting of child abuse.

During the Stewart House Program, children:

  • Develop self-care, social and conflict resolution skills.
  • Learn to relax and overcome anxiety.
  • Develop a broader outlook on life.
  • Establish friendships and routines in a safe community.
  • Increase their self-esteem.
  • Feel more emotionally supported.

While in residence, children are provided with:

  • Optometric, audiometric, dental, and general health screening.
  • Essential treatment, including tooth extraction and prescription glasses.
  • Accommodation, meals, laundry services, transport and excursions.
  • Medication and basic needs such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, new shoes and appropriate clothing.