Our Organisation

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Graduate Women Qld (GWQ) is affiliated with The Australian Federation of Graduate Women Inc (AFGW), one of 78 member nations of the Graduate Women International (GWI), which has consultative status with the United Nations and its specialised agencies, including UNESCO and ECOSOC.

In 1920, AFUW-Q  (now GWQ) was established by women of vision, initiative and courage during the first years of peace after World War I, to promote peace through the education of women and girls.

In 1939-40, members formed a War Service Sub-Committee which, in conjunction with the Mothercraft Association, arranged classes in first aid and home nursing. Throughout the War years, AFUW-Q members also served hospitality to graduate refugees, from both Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

Queensland Committee

Members share with like-minded women as they participate at local, national and international levels in activities such as fundraising for scholarships programs, setting up projects to assist women, and advocating on women’s issues, especially in the spheres of Education and Human Rights. Members also participate in the GWI Programme for Action. You can access our constitution here.

The Queensland Committee award two (2) bursaries annually at the Australian Catholic University. One bursary is awarded to a final year indigenous student, the other bursary is awarded to a female student from regional/remote Queensland. All branches of GWQ award bursaries in their local region to assist women with their studies. (Please see Branches page for further details).

The Australian Federation of Graduate Women Inc. (AFGW Inc.)

AFGW Inc. is the national voice of graduate women, promoting the advancement of women and  equality of opportunity through initiatives in education, friendship and peace.

Graduate Women International (GWI)

The International Federation of University Women (IFUW) was founded in 1919 by women who believed in the importance of working together for peace, international understanding and friendship.

In 2015, IFUW launched its new name of Graduate Women International (GWI). The contemporary title more accurately reflects the organisation’s inclusive membership, and dynamism across advocacy, projects, fellowships and grants. GWI continues to advocate in favour of secondary, higher and continuing education for women all over the world.