Society of Women Leaders

We are a collective of committed female philanthropists who work together to advance the mission of Australian Red Cross by embracing and engaging women in our communities, across the country and around the world.

The Society of Women Leaders (SWL) is a community of strong, dedicated women who share a social conscience and want to effect change. We act as advocates for the work of Australian Red Cross through our support of the key programs we select, as well as by raising awareness of the work of the largest humanitarian organisation in the world.

If you are interested in joining our giving circle, we would love to hear from you. Please email our National Chair, Rowena McGilvray.

Women leading through philanthropy

Over 110 years ago, Lady Helen Munro Ferguson established Australian Red Cross by engaging talented, committed and compassionate women dedicated to a lifesaving mission. In 2014, her tradition continued when the Society of Women Leaders was formed to unite generous and engaged women around a shared humanitarian purpose.

Our ethos

As a collective of women leaders and philanthropists, we are committed to:

• advancing the humanitarian mission of Australian Red Cross
• bringing together like-minded women who are making a difference
• making a measurable impact on important issues facing our communities
• improving the lives of vulnerable women, children, families and communities
• building strategic alliances for change
• lending our voice to the issues we believe in most
• leading through philanthropy.

A global movement

The Society of Women Leaders is part of the Tiffany Circle International Council, a global philanthropic network for women.

By engaging dynamic women from all backgrounds to create this powerful network, we come together to forge friendships and further the work of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

Throughout the year, Members can choose to attend unique, informative briefings and events, both in Australia and in conjunction with international chapters in the United States of America, Canada, the Netherlands, Switzerland and West Africa.

Make a life-changing difference

Women are increasingly leading the way in philanthropy—at home, in the workplace, and across communities. More than ever, women are not only seeking change; they want to be active participants in creating it.

In partnership with Australian Red Cross, Society of Women Leaders is proud to champion impactful giving - empowering women to engage more deeply in their philanthropic journeys and shape the causes they care about most.

Each June, members take part in a democratic decision-making process to determine which programs and initiatives will be funded in the upcoming financial year. These priorities often focus on critical areas such as:

• Emergency relief during armed conflicts and natural disasters.
• Access to education in disadvantaged communities.
• Support for young mothers and their children.

Traditionally, SWL membership begins with an annual gift of $10,000to Australian Red Cross. To recognise the diverse ambitions and generosity of our community, we are currently offering a 24-month trial with two additional tiers—$5,000 and $30,000.
_{Regardless of contribution level, all gifts are confidential, and every member is celebrated equally as part of our vibrant, purpose-driven community.}

Join the Movement

We warmly invite you to become part of a community of passionate, like-minded women committed to supporting Australian Red Cross. Together, as members of an international network, we carry forward a proud legacy of women uplifting one another and extending aid to those in need -regardless of who they are or where they live.

Email us today to start your journey toward impactful giving and meaningful connections.

Rowena McGilvray
National Chair and Founding Member