ABOUT US
We are the Country Women’s Association in Tasmania
Since 1936, we have been a driving force for positive change in Tasmania. We are a network of volunteers from all walks of life, united by a passion for improving the lives of women, families, and communities. We offer connection with community, new friendships and a sense of purpose to all members through various volunteer roles. Through member-led fundraising, gift shops, catering and community programs, we provide scholarships, support those facing hardship, and step up in times of crisis to care for our state.
A Word From Our President
I have been a member of CWA in Tasmania for almost 50 years and I am honoured to now be leading this Association. We continue to be a beacon of community spirit, resilience and friendship across the State. The dedication of members – whether it’s through volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or simply offering friendship – truly embodies the heart and soul of our organisation. Let us continue to embrace new opportunities for learning and growth and celebrate the unique strengths that each member brings. The Country Women’s Association is such a special and supportive family and I look forward to new achievements and embracing change whilst drawing on our traditions.
— Adriana Taylor, State President
Our Connection
The CWA in Tasmania is an association with connections that extend nationally across Australia, and even worldwide.
Tasmanian Based
As a not-for-profit, non-party-political and non-sectarian organisation, we’ve been serving Tasmania since 1936 with special focus on regional and rural areas. While we’re known for our ‘tea and scones’ catering, we contribute to meaningful change through advocacy, education, community service and the sharing of knowledge and friendship. We’re honoured to have the support of our patron, Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania.
National Support
Throughout Australia there are 44,000 members in 1,855 branches. This collective strength makes us a powerful voice in issues of national significance, which we’ve demonstrated through numerous successful advocacy campaigns.
Global Affiliation
The association is affiliated with Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW), connecting us with over 9 million rural women in 75 countries. Together, we work to raise living standards, provide practical support, and eliminate gender discrimination worldwide.
The current World President is Marie Kenny from Canada.
The current World President is Marie Kenny from Canada.
Who We Collaborate With
We collaborate with many organisations across Tasmania on both short-term projects and ongoing initiatives:
Our Foundations and Our Future
Our Association is built on a rich legacy of service and fellowship. We honour the traditions that have guided us for over 90 years, while embracing the core values that guide us today. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to service, fellowship and the values of inclusion and acceptance that define us. Together we will build on our legacy.
Our Collect
Let us, O Lord, achieve the nobler purpose,
for which we live – that others may be blest.
Save us from pettiness and all self-seeking;
Teach us to seek, to find, to give the best,
Let us be genuine with one another,
And see in each the best that we can find.
So many lives depend on ours for brightness,
Lord, keep us brave and help us to be kind.
for which we live – that others may be blest.
Save us from pettiness and all self-seeking;
Teach us to seek, to find, to give the best,
Let us be genuine with one another,
And see in each the best that we can find.
So many lives depend on ours for brightness,
Lord, keep us brave and help us to be kind.
Our Motto
Honour to God
Loyalty to the Throne
Service to the Country
Through Countrywomen
For Countrywomen
By Countrywomen.
Loyalty to the Throne
Service to the Country
Through Countrywomen
For Countrywomen
By Countrywomen.
Our Core Values
These are the pillars of our association, fostering an environment of welcome, meaningful action.
Inclusion and Acceptance
We are a non-party political and non-sectarian organisation that welcomes anyone who identifies as a woman. We celebrate diversity, including cultural, ethnic and professional backgrounds.
Service and Impact
We are actively involved in our communities. We listen, learn, and work together to create tangible, positive change for women, families, and communities across Tasmania.
Friendship and Support
We provide a safe and supportive environment built on friendship. We strive to create a space that allows every member to connect, grow, and shine.
How We’re Organised
Our committees provide leadership and coordination of activities. Members can serve on committees according to their own interests.
State Executive
Members and Branches of CWA in Tasmania are served by a State Executive elected at the Annual General Meeting in September.
This team of volunteers has oversight for the management of the Association. Nominations for State Executive are invited from all members and elected by Branches across the State.
This team of volunteers has oversight for the management of the Association. Nominations for State Executive are invited from all members and elected by Branches across the State.
Positions on State Executive
There are 10 roles on our Executive Committee:
- State President
- Two Vice-Presidents
- State Treasurer
- Southern Group President
- Northern Group President
- North-western Group President
- State International Officer
- Committee Chair for the Handcraft and Home Industries
- State Editor
If you would like to get in touch with any relevant person on our committee, please contact us.
Meeting Schedule and Processes
State Executive meets regularly at various locations around the State. Requests and reports to be considered at an Executive meeting should be presented to State Office by email to admin@cwaintasmania.com.au.
For specific dates, times and details, please contact the State Office.
For specific dates, times and details, please contact the State Office.
Geographical Groups and Regional Structure
CWA In Tasmania Branches are divided into the South, North and North-west. Each group meets at least three times a year for an annual forum, to socialise, share news and learnings from the past year, and participate in educational and skill-sharing activities.
Liaison Officers and Community Support
Community Support Officers (CSOs)
CSO’s for each geographical group liaise with community organisations supported by CWA in Tas and fulfil the challenging task of matching demand for donations with items supplied by our branches and others from outside the Association. Our CSO’s work with hospitals, nursing homes, women’s refuges, community centres, and organisations supporting new and young mothers, patients and people experiencing homelessness.
International Officer
Following requests, the International Officer co-ordinates support to the Pacific Islands and remote Australian communities.
Permanent Committees
Handcrafts & Home Industries Committee (H&HI)
The H&HI Committee co-ordinates the teaching and sharing of handcrafts and home industries between members and the public. It organises a State Exhibition annually. There are four handcraft groups in the State.
Hawley Holiday Home Committee
This committee manages our holiday accommodation facilities for members and the community.
Committees and Special Projects
Events Committee
This committee facilitates the Association’s hosting of and/or participation in various events. Sub-committees are formed for each event comprised of members located in geographic proximity to the event and/or those with a particular interest in its theme or subject matter.
If you’d like to join a committee please get in touch.
A LEGACY OF IMPACT