The first local Australian branch was formed in Adelaide in 1879, with branches being established in a diocese in all states by 1901.
It aimed to facilitate friendship between ladies (Associates) and working girls (members). Associates would help find members’ jobs and encourage them in Christian behaviour.
The activities of local groups varied considerably. However, in its early days, branches generally held meetings for working girls and several also ran hostels to provide them with safe and supportive accommodation in the major cities of each state.
GFS broadened its ministry to girls by running after school groups, camps and leadership training courses, but each diocese often ran independently of each other.
From 1947, the separate GFS Dioceses around the country decided to create a Commonwealth Council, with a National Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer to guide and grow the ministry while building good relationships and communication across our vast country.
Today, GFS Australia operates in 9 dioceses across the country, with ministry groups containing children, youth and adults. To see what we offer look in the I’m new to GFS section.
Members of GFS are asked to pay an annual membership fee, complete a membership form and sign a Code of Conduct form.