With support from Library Patrons, we have digitised the collections of some of Australia’s most remarkable women leaders. 

The materials that the Library holds reveal Australia’s long and challenging path to equality for women. They are, in many cases, unique: offering an extraordinary insight into the phases of feminism and the struggle for equal rights in all aspects of life in Australia and internationally. 

Our collections include material from women’s rights groups, including the National Council of Women of Australia and the Australian Federation of Women Voters, and from great women leaders of our past. 

We are privileged to be the custodians of the papers of inspirational women leaders, including Bessie Rischbieth, Ruby Rich, Enid Lyons, Dorothy Tangney and Ivy Wedgwood among many, many others.

These are the treasured voices of the women who broke the glass ceilings for women’s right to vote, rights over their own bodies, birth control, no-fault divorce, equal pay, equal opportunity, representation in all levels of government and so much more. 

Their story documents the journey towards equality for Australian women in the twentieth century.

Digitising the rich archives of these women brings these treasured voices back to life, enabling present and future generations to experience these extraordinary moments in time once again, and inspiring the next generation of women leaders.

Thanks to a group of generous Patrons, these collections are now available on Trove to inform, educate, and inspire.

Our thanks to Sally White OAM, Carol Schwartz AO, Trawalla Foundation, The Calvert-Jones Foundation, Lyndsey Cattermole AM, Eve Mahlab AO, WeirAnderson Foundation, M-Power, Margaret Jackson AC, Perpetual, Diane Johnstone AM, Dr Wendy McCarthy AO, Margaret Reid AO, Dr Marie-Louise Ayres, Dr Russell Ayres and donors to the National Library’s 2021 appeal for making this project possible.