War Widows Commemoration
War Widows’ Day
Each year on 19 October, Queensland commemorates War Widows Day, to pay respect and recognise the sacrifices of widows from various conflicts.
The Queensland Government announced in 2021 that Queensland would be the first Australian state to formally hold War Widows’ Day. The October date was chosen to mark the birthday of Mrs Jessie Vasey CBE OBE, Founder of the War Widows' Guild of Australia.
Australian War Widow’s Guild
The Australian War Widows Inc. (formerly War Widows Guild of Australia Inc.) supports and advocates for all War Widows from all conflicts.
Australian War Widows Queensland supports approximately 2,000 members and 10,000 widows and widowers across the state.
Mrs Jessie Vasey, who was born in Roma, founded the War Widows Guild in Toowoomba in 1947 so that Australian war widows would be recognised by government and provided with financial support and services.
Find out more about the Australian War Widow's Guild
Jessie Vasey CBE OBE
Discover the story of an inspiring leader - Jessie Vasey CBE OBE, Founder of the War Widows’ Guild of Australia.