In 1915, acting on the advice of the British Travellers Aid Society and expecting migration to Australia to increase, the Travellers Aid Committee of the Young Christian Women's Association in Melbourne invited charitable organisations in Victoria interested in the care and welfare of women and girls to a Conference to consider forming a Society along the lines of the British Society.
Following on from this meeting the Travellers Aid Society of Victoria was formed in 1916 as an independent body. In its early years, it was predominantly deserted wives of soldiers and their children benefited from Travellers Aid. The Society particularly worked on applications for War Gratuity Pensions. Accommodation was found for many women and unmarried mothers were provided with care during and after their pregnancies. Regular and ongoing follow-ups were part of the service. Women arriving by steam ship and working couples were assisted to find employment.