Country Women's Association

Women of all ages join CWA. They live in urban and regional centres and in small rural communities. The first CWA Branch in Victoria was established in 1928 in South Yarra and its mission was to assist women and children in farming communities, where poverty was widespread as the depression took hold. Maternal and child care centres were early projects funded and supported by CWA.

In Bendigo there is now a Group of six Branches and each has its own focus. All work toward improving opportunities for women and children. Some members learn new craft techniques; others cater for small events; social issues and advocacy to empower women and minority groups is a challenge taken up by some members. Development of leadership skills and organisational abilities is encouraged.

CWA also connects women to world issues, belonging to Associated Country Women of the World, supporting enterprises across the world to assist women to develop projects that result in economic and food security for their small community.