Become a Member
CEW brings together Australia's most senior women leaders to drive change across business, policy, and society — advancing gender equality and building pathways for the next generation.
NOMINATIONS CLOSED
2026 new member nominations are now closed
New member nominations closed at 4:59pm AEST on 11 September 2026.
1,400+
Australia's most senior and distinguished women leaders
$749B
Combined revenue overseen by our members
40 Years
Leading change for women in Australia
Why CEW Membership Matters
Membership is for women who have achieved exceptional leadership. Each member brings their unique perspective and expertise, enriching our collective purpose of advancing gender equality and empowering all women.
Distinguished Peer Network
Connect with Australia's most influential women leaders across public, private, and not-for-profit sectors through exclusive events, intimate dinners, and chapter gatherings.
Leadership Development
Access world-class leadership programs, executive coaching, and scholarships designed specifically for senior women advancing to C-suite and board roles.
Advocacy & Influence
Shape policy and drive change through CEW's research, advocacy initiatives, and direct engagement with government and business leaders on critical gender equity issues.
Thought Leadership
Contribute to and access cutting-edge research, including the annual Senior Executive Census, white papers, and resources that inform business strategy and public policy.
Mentorship & Support
Give back by mentoring emerging leaders through our scholarship programs and connect with peers navigating similar challenges at the executive level.
National Reach
Engage across all Australian states and territories through local chapter events, national summits, and annual dinners that bring together our entire community.
The Nomination Process
CEW membership is by peer nomination only, reflecting the collaborative spirit of our community.
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1
Meet the Criteria
Nominees must hold or have held a senior leadership position meeting CEW's stringent criteria in the public, private, or not-for-profit sectors.
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2
Peer Nomination
Two current CEW members who have held membership for at least 12 months must nominate you. Nominations are accepted annually during our nomination window.
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3
Committee Review
The Member Nomination Committee, composed of existing CEW members, reviews all nominations and makes selections based on leadership achievement and contribution potential.
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4
Welcome to CEW
Successful nominees are welcomed into the CEW community at an induction event, gaining immediate access to the full member benefits and network.
Membership Criteria
Nominees must meet at least one category in our selection criteria, demonstrating exceptional leadership achievement in their field.
A nominee may be an Australian citizen or permanent resident living offshore, or a foreign national residing and working in Australia in a role that meets the criteria.
Nomination Resources
Everything members need to nominate a new CEW member during open cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Current CEW members who have held membership for longer than 12 months can nominate new members. If you know a qualified woman leader and want to nominate or find out more information, log in to the CEW Member Hub and visit the 'Nominate A Member' page.
Members retain their membership even if they no longer meet the role requirements, as long as they pay annual dues and comply with the CEW Constitution. Once you're part of the CEW community, you remain connected regardless of career transitions.
No. CEW membership is by peer nomination only. You must be nominated by two current CEW members who have held membership for at least 12 months.
Member nominations open annually. 2026 new member nominations are now closed. Current members can nominate during the designated nomination window each year.
Yes. A nominee may be an Australian citizen or permanent resident living offshore, or a foreign national residing and working in Australia in a role that meets the criteria.
Have Questions About Membership?
Our team is here to help answer any questions about the nomination process or membership criteria.
Contact Membership Team