YMCA Australia began in Adelaide on 15 March 1851. In 1853, branches opened in both Melbourne and Sydney. One year later in 1854, another branch opened in Hobart. In 1855, YMCA Australia gained full member status of the World Alliance of the YMCAs. The Y Australia is also a member of the Asia & Pacific Alliance of YMCAs. The National Committee of YMCAs comprising New Zealand and Australia was formed in 1906, later separating between the two countries in 1920. Today, Y Australia is made up of 12 member YMCAs. YMCA Australia programmes fall into 7 main areas: Recreation, Accommodation, Children’s services, Community initiatives, Benevolent programmes, Training.