Catholic Women’s League Australia Inc. (CWLA) is a non Government Organisation (NGO) with a membership of approximately 7000 women Australia-wide. Our Organisation was founded by Margaret Fletcher in England in 1906 and established in Australia in 1914.

In aspiring to realise the Objects of the League, we aim to educate, promote and provide encouragement to Catholic Women to live out the teachings of the Church, and to be aware of issues relevant to all women and of family life; seeking always to commit to the support of the marginalized and those at the grassroots of society.

Our Mission

CWL is an organisation dedicated to working, supporting and empowering women to participate with dignity and a spirit-filled purpose to work for the building of the Kingdom of God.

Our Vision

In 2008-2009 we will strive to emulate the faith, courage, determination and love of our founder, Margaret Fletcher and the women who have led us forward to this day. To continue to affirm the dignity of women in family, religious and single life, and to encourage the participation of women in the Mission of the Church; to nurture and respect their God-given gifts and to using these gifts wisely to collaborate effectively with women of other faiths.

Our work

Catholic Women's League Australia is involved in many areas of social justice and spiritual development. Elected convenors keep members up to date regarding the issues affecting our society at local and global levels. Monthly updated reports are prepared by the Bioethics and Social Issues Convenors and the National International Secretary. CWLA is a also member of the World Union of Catholic Women's Organisations (WUCWO). Information about upcoming conferences and reports from CWLA conferences are published when available.

CWL across Australia

Catholic Women’s League operates in all the States of Australia and the ACT. Each State is an independent organisation representing its members at the national level. Each State organisation has its own Constitution and Executive Committee. Also each State has its own Social Issues and Bioethics Convenors and International Secretary who keep their members informed and up to date with issues of interest to CWL members and those that have a marked affect on our society. Each state organisation is made up of many branches with members working at a grass roots level to promote the activities of the CWL. It is here, at the local branches, that much of the work is done to support campaigns such as Pink Ribbon Day, White Ribbon Day, Wrap with Love and many other genuinely worthy causes that help change our world at local, national and international level.

Follow the links on the left to find out what’s happening in the CWL in your State. Each State page has the contact details that can put you in contact with your nearest branch.