Girl Guides Victoria has been a source of empowerment
We believe in empowering girls and young women to discover their potential and make a positive impact in their world.
As part of Girl Guides Australia and the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), we are connected to a global network of over 10 million girls and young women. This connection enriches our programs, allowing us to share ideas and experiences that ignite passion and purpose in every girl.
Girl Guides Victoria is powered by the passion and commitment of our volunteers. Their commitment and energy fuels our mission, creating a nurturing environment where girls can explore their interests, build lifelong friendships, and develop the leadership skills needed to navigate life’s challenges.
Through a diverse range of activities
Through a diverse range of activities—from thrilling outdoor adventures to impactful community service projects—Girl Guides Victoria empowers girls to embrace their unique strengths and become confident leaders. We celebrate diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that every girl feels valued and inspired to shine her light.
Join us on this exciting journey as we continue to foster a spirit of adventure, friendship, and personal growth, guiding the next generation of leaders to create a brighter, more compassionate world!
Local Guiding, Global Movement
Guiding connects girls and women locally, and on a global level. Girl Guides Victoria is connected nationally through Girl Guides Australia, and globally through the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts
(WAGGGS).
WAGGGS connects over 10 million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts across 150 countries. This international network allows our Guides to participate in global initiatives, cultural exchanges, and collaborative projects, fostering a sense of global citizenship and solidarity. Through these connections, our Guides gain a broader perspective on global issues and develop a deeper understanding of different cultures and communities.
Being part of this global movement connects our local Guiding to the shared global mission of empowering girls to reach their full potential and become responsible citizens of the world. Our programs align with the values and goals of WAGGGS, promoting leadership, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility for all Guides.
By taking part in international events and challenges, our Guides and volunteers not only contribute to their local communities here at home but also make a positive impact on the broader world.
Rich History, Bright Future
Girl Guides evolved from the Scouting movement, founded by Robert Baden-Powell in the early 20th century. Initially led by his sister Agnes and later by his wife Olave, Girl Guiding has grown into one of the largest all-female organisations in the world.
Girl Guides has a long and proud history in Victoria. Our story began with the first meeting of the 1st Hawthorn Baden-Powell Girl Guides on February 6, 1911, organised by Miss Louie Kerr. The troop was officially registered as ‘Girl Guides’; although similar groups had already formed in other Australian states. The program included activities like needlework, cooking, ambulance, nursing, and physical culture, which was quite progressive for the time.
At first, the Guides met in a small hall behind a shop on Burwood Road, Hawthorn, marked by a red and white umbrella. They later moved to the Hawthorn Council’s band room. The girls met weekly and on alternate Saturdays, often traveling to the countryside for various activities such as drill, hiking, semaphore, Morse code, first aid, and badge work. This group continued its activities until the later years of World War I.
In 1957, a plaque was placed on the original meeting building to commemorate the first meeting. The building has since been demolished but the plaque has been kept by Girl Guides Victoria as an important keepsake in our history. The 1st Hawthorn Baden-Powell Girl Guides were recognised by Agnes Baden-Powell, highlighting their significance in the history of Guiding in Victoria.