SWAN was established in 1996 by a group of like-minded women living on the Mornington Peninsula and to advocate for social justice and play an active involvement in the community. It provides a forum for women to discuss and learn about social justice issues through bi-monthly meetings with guest speakers on topics such as human rights, homelessness, gender equality, aged care, the environment, gender-based violence and First Nations issues.
Past speakers have included Victoria’s first female Premier The Hon Joan Kirner AM, AC; Human Rights advocate Prof Gillian Triggs; Family Violence campaigner Rosie Batty AO; Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police Christine Nixon AO, APM, and proud Wiradjuri and Wailwan woman, lawyer, activist and storyteller Teela Reid.
What do we do?
Current initiatives:
- 2024-2025 SWAN Val McKenna Young Women’s Advocacy Award
- 2024-2025 SWAN Women for Housing justice
- 2024-2025 SWAN Women Against Gender-Based Violence
Previous initiatives:
- 2023 Publication of When Women Meet documenting SWAN’s unique long-term history
- 2011-2021 Bursaries for disadvantaged Master of Arts students researching social justice issues
2021 Government submission for the Constitutional Enshrinement of a First Nations Voice
Our monthly newsletter SWAN NEWS provides information about up-coming events, social justice actions and social catchups where members meet to discuss issues and enjoy friendship that comes from sharing common values.
Want to Know More?
You are welcome to attend our General Meetings and hear our guest speaker. See our Home page for details.
Or our more casual Coffee Catch Ups. See our Home page for details.
Check out our Newsletters
If you would like to be added to our mailing list, please email swanwomen@outlook.com
Southern Women's Action Network 