Frequently asked questions
Find the answers to many of our most frequently asked questions below.
General
What is the Business Women's Collective?
The Business Women’s Collective (BWC) is a not-for-profit organisation and thriving community of women in business, leadership, and professional roles across Regional Western Australia. We are dedicated to creating a space where women support each other to grow, lead, and make an impact through meaningful connections, inspiring events, and professional development opportunities.
How do I contact the BWC committee?
You can reach the committee via the Contact Us page on our website at businesswomenscollective.org.au. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 5 business days.
Membership
Who can join the Business Women's Collective?
The BWC is open to women in business, leadership, professional roles, community organisations, and entrepreneurial ventures across Regional Western Australia. Whether you are established in your career or just getting started, there is a place for you within the BWC community.
Do I need to own a business to become a member?
No. BWC welcomes business owners, professionals, leaders, creatives, consultants, community leaders, and women working across all industries.
Do I need to live in the Peel region to join?
No. While BWC is based in the Peel region, we welcome members from regional communities across
Western Australia.
What membership tiers are available and how much do they cost?
BWC currently offers three membership tiers, billed annually:
- Individual: $150 per year. Includes all core member benefits for one person.
- Organisation: $345 per year. Includes all core member benefits for up to three team
members, plus employer branding opportunities. - Not-for-Profit: $275 per year. Includes all core member benefits for up to three team
members, subject to eligibility verification.
Full details and current pricing are available at businesswomenscollective.org.au/membership.
What are the benefits of becoming a paid member?
BWC members receive:
- Early access to event bookings
- Discounted tickets to selected paid events
- Access to member-only opportunities
- Member directory listing
- Networking and referral opportunities
- Access to business development initiatives and workshops
- Opportunities to promote and showcase their business
- Access to a supportive regional network of women
How do I apply for membership?
Select your preferred membership tier on our Membership page and follow the prompts to complete your registration. All applications are reviewed by the committee, and you will receive confirmation and next steps within approximately 5 business days.
When does my membership begin?
Your membership becomes active once your application has been approved and payment has been received.
How long does membership last?
Memberships are valid for 12 months from the date of approval.
Do memberships automatically renew?
Yes. Memberships are set to renew annually. Members will receive a renewal reminder at least 14 days before their renewal date. If you do not wish to renew, please cancel before that date. See the
cancellation question below for details.
Can I cancel my membership?
Yes. Memberships can be cancelled at any time via the website. Membership fees are generally non-refundable unless required by law or approved at the committee’s discretion.
Can I upgrade or downgrade my membership tier during the year?
Please contact the committee to discuss any changes to your membership tier. Any adjustments will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are subject to committee approval.
Is my membership transferable?
No. Individual memberships are non-transferable.
Can organisations include multiple staff members?
Yes. Organisation and Not-for-Profit memberships include up to three team members under one
membership. Additional team members beyond those three will require separate individual
memberships.
How does the Not-for-Profit membership work?
Our Not-for-Profit membership is designed to support eligible not-for-profit organisations at a reduced
rate. Verification of NFP status may be required during the application process.
What information is visible in the Member Directory?
All members are listed in the BWC Member Directory, accessible via the member portal on our website. Members can self-manage their listing and choose what information to display, including
their business name, logo, website, and social media links. Contact details are only visible to other logged-in members, not to the general public.
Will my business be listed publicly?
Yes. BWC members are featured in our publicly accessible Member Directory to help promote and
showcase women-led businesses across regional Western Australia. Members can manage and
update their own directory listing, including their business information, logo, website, and social media
links, through the self-managed member portal.
Are there expectations around member conduct?
Yes. Members are expected to engage respectfully and professionally at all BWC events, online platforms, and community interactions.
Can membership applications be declined?
Yes. Membership applications are subject to committee review and approval to ensure alignment with
the values and purpose of the organisation.
Events
Are the Monthly Meetups free?
Yes. Our monthly networking meetups are free to attend and open to the broader community.
Members receive priority access to bookings and discounted pricing for selected ticketed events.
What types of events does BWC offer?
BWC hosts a range of events including:
- Monthly networking meetups
- Workshops and masterclasses
- Leadership and professional development events
- Charity and community initiatives
- Evening networking events
- Large-scale flagship events such as the Long Table Lunch
How do I book an event?
All events are listed on our website at businesswomenscollective.org.au/events. Each event listing
includes a Book Now button. Bookings are essential for all events, including free events, due to venue capacity limits. Members are encouraged to book early as popular events can fill quickly.
Do I need to book for free events?
Yes. Even for free events, bookings are essential due to venue capacity limitations.
What happens if I book an event and can no longer attend?
If you can no longer attend an event, please notify us as soon as possible so your place can be
offered to someone on the waitlist.
What is the refund policy for ticketed events?
Standard refund terms for ticketed events are:
- 14 or more days prior to the event: full refund or event credit
- 7 to 13 days prior: 50% refund or event credit
- Less than 7 days prior: non-refundable
- Non-attendance without notice: non-refundable
Refund terms may vary depending on the event.
What happens if BWC cancels or postpones an event?
In the event that BWC cancels or significantly changes an event (including date, time, or venue),
registered attendees will be notified as soon as possible and offered a full refund or event credit. BWC is not responsible for any other costs incurred, such as travel or accommodation.
Partnerships, Volunteering & Support
How can my business partner or sponsor BWC?
We offer a range of partnership and sponsorship opportunities for organisations aligned with our
mission of supporting women in regional WA. Please contact the committee via businesswomenscollective.org.au/contact-us to discuss available opportunities.
Can I volunteer with BWC?
Yes. BWC is a volunteer-run organisation and we welcome members who would like to contribute their time, skills, and experience. Opportunities may include assisting at events, supporting initiatives
and projects, joining sub-committees, or nominating for a Management Committee position through the AGM process where suitable experience aligns with the role requirements.
Can I donate to BWC?
BWC is a not-for-profit organisation and welcomes community support. Donation initiatives and fundraising opportunities are announced throughout the year. Visit businesswomenscollective.org.au
for current information on how to contribute.
Still have a question?